Obituary of JOAN ANN KOSOWAN

Joan Masyk was born on June 10, 1943, in Arbakka, Manitoba, the youngest child of Minnie and John Masyk. Growing up on the farm, Joan was exposed to a diverse range of experiences that would shape her life for the rest of her days. As a unique little girl, she embraced a variety of pets, including dogs, cats, calves, and particularly her horse, Trigger. Joan acquired essential household skills through her work with her mother and inherited exceptional cooking abilities. She was also exposed to practical farm activities, which remained with her throughout her life. She attended school in Arbakka, where she commuted two miles, one way, every day for eight years. This is where her love for walking originated and would become a staple with friends and family for all Joan’s life. During her high school years, she resided in Winnipeg, where she boarded with a teacher and performed household chores for her support.

Joan began her career in the financial services industry at Bank of Montreal’s Portage and Golding branch. Her tenure concluded with the Royal Bank, where she consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to assisting her elderly clients, fostering enduring friendships along the way.

Joan met and fell in love with William Kosowan. They eventually married in 1966. After leaving their farm life behind, Bill and Joan would continue their lives together in Winnipeg, while never forgetting their roots.  Accompanied by her remarkable husband, Joan cultivated a passion for gardening, harvesting wild fruits, and foraging mushrooms. They engaged in daily walks and bicycle rides, cross-country skiing at Bird’s Hill Park, summer camping vacations, and weekend excursions to the farm to assist their parents and others in need. With great respect for their upbringing, Joan and Bill dedicated their summer months to maintaining the Gardenton Church and Cemetery grounds. During the hunting season, Joan helped her husband meticulously prepare deer for nourishing and comforting meals. She possessed an exceptional aptitude for sewing, which was evident in the intricate framed cross-stitch projects that adorned their home. In her leisure time at home, Joan loved baking, cooking, and canning alongside her husband. Joan was an exceptionally dedicated member of the church, serving as Treasurer and actively participating in church events, including the preparation of the monthly perogy lunch and fundraiser.

Bill’s tremendous maintenance skills enabled the family to construct and maintain their home, while Joan served as the foundation of their family. Together, they established a welcoming and respectful environment where family, friends, and neighbours were always at ease. With the birth of their two sons, Dean in 1974 and Jeffrey in 1976, Joan and Bill dedicated themselves to nurturing their family. Joan instilled in her children a profound appreciation for nature and a commitment to nurturing their talents in any direction their interests may have led them. Throughout their sons’ formative years, Joan remained their number one fan, consistently attending every sporting event to cheer them on.

Joan’s retirement was finally realized with the arrival of her granddaughters, Anna and Maddie. She played a significant role in the lives of both of her granddaughters, providing them with opportunities for play, swimming lessons, and dance classes. Until they were independent enough to go to school on their own, Joan was their safety net, walking the girls to school in warmer months and driving them when it was bitterly cold.  Above all, Joan cherished spoiling Anna and Maddie with her love during their camping trips at West Hawk Lake. There, they could stay up late to snuggle by the campfire, play all day at the beach, and visit the CBC Store to sell their handmade crafts and soap.

Joan’s influence on everyone she met will always be remembered fondly. Her unwavering dedication to treating everyone with kindness, respect, and compassion left a lasting impression on those around her. She always made it clear that home was home, no matter what. Joan’s support and selflessness extended to those in need, and she was always there to lend a helping hand. As an avid animal lover, Joan cherished cuddling and playing with the family dogs: Bailey, Potter, Pepper, and Ruger. In fact, no dog in the neighbourhood could pass by her home without Joan greeting them with affectionate rubs and treats. During the customary Sunday family dinner, Joan made sure everyone had a plate full of deliciousness before she could even think about sitting down to enjoy it. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and neighbour. Mom, we’ll cherish the memories we made with you every day, and your absence will be deeply felt. But your legacy will live on in our hearts and minds.

On February 4, 2025, while holding the hand of her cherished daughter-in-law at Jocelyn House Hospice, Joan Kosowan, after a courageous year-and-a-half battle with cancer, passed away peacefully at 12:00 p.m. Throughout her treatment, Joan maintained her positivity and infectious sense of humour, surrounded by the love and support of her family and friends. Joan is survived by her children, Dean and Jeffrey (Leanne), grandchildren Anna and Madeline, and brother Jim (Mary Anne). She is predeceased by her husband, William Kosowan, and parents, Minnie and John Masyk.

At Joan’s request, cremation has taken place, and a private family burial will be held at a later date. You are invited to pay your respects to Joan at any time between 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 13, at Cropo Funeral Chapel (1442 Main Street). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jocelyn House Hospice at 177 Egerton Road or Holy Trinity Cathedral at 1175 Main Street.