Joan Maxine Mitchell
1944 – 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Maxine Mitchell on the morning of Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in Waterloo, Ontario. Joan is survived by her loving husband Bruce, her sister Donna, and her nephew Kevin and his family—wife Aimee, and children Hudson, Bennett, Emma, and Cate. She was predeceased by her parents, Malcom and Grace, her brother Hugh, and her brother-in-law Bob.
Born in Saskatchewan, Joan excelled as an athlete during her high school years in Saskatoon, where she was recognized as the top athlete among both girls and boys. She earned her Bachelor’s degree at the University of Saskatchewan, and her career took her to libraries in Vancouver and Liverpool, England. Joan later moved to Waterloo, Ontario, where Bruce began his career as a faculty member at the University of Waterloo, while Joan earned her Librarian’s degree at the University of Toronto. She went on to become the first Librarian of Archives and Special Collections at Waterloo Lutheran University (now Wilfrid Laurier University), where she worked until her retirement.
Joan and Bruce shared a love of travel, visiting many countries in Europe together. Joan was also known for building strong friendships with her neighbours and offering support to them in their later years. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, especially her husband Bruce, nephew Kevin, and his family.
Joan’s family would like to extend their gratitude to the health team at Grand River Hospital for the care and support provided in her final days.
Cremation has taken place, and there will not be a formal burial ceremony. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joan’s memory can be made to Parkinson Canada.
