Obituary – Joanne Bedell

JOANNE BEDELL 

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Joanne Bedell (nee Haugen) of Kamloops, BC on December 21^st, 2023, at 82 years of age. Joanne is survived by her children Suzanne (Bob) Brash of Pinantan Lake, BC, Sonia Bedell of Fort St. John, BC, Bryan (Kim) Bedell of Dawson Creek, BC, and Summer (Bill) Halliday of Vimy, AB, as well as grandchildren Ben, Travis, and Celine Brash, Karl Heinrich, Brandon (Erin) Bedell, Cale Bedell, and Molly and Meaghan Halliday. She is also survived by her sisters Pat Bassett and Lois Dober. She was predeceased by her daughter Tracy, grandson Dakota, mother Eileen, father Clayton, sister Kathleen and brothers Jim & Keith. 

The Peace country lost another of its roses on December 21^st, 2023. Joanne Isabel Bedell was born in a hurry (in the family car) while on the way to the hospital on August 1^st, 1941. Her early years were spent growing up on the farm her parents, Clayton & Eileen, homesteaded on. She had many memories to share about her hard-working parents, and the odd ornery horse she was bucked off. 

Joanne’s greatest gift was her incredible musical talent. She learned to play guitar by ear, with the family band. They would travel the area playing all kinds of venues, to the great enjoyment of their audiences. She had all the song books to learn lyrics from some of the greats of the era. When she moved south with her young family, she dipped her toes in the country music scene in Kamloops too. With five kids to raise ono her own, it was a daunting task to pursue the sought after music career. She had a powerful voice until near the end, and could still carry a tune. 

May you be singing with the angels, Mom. 

The family wishes to extend gratitude to those that cared for her during her stay at Overlander Extended Care. 

No formal ceremony will be held.

Condolences may be expressed to the family from
www.cypressfuneral.ca