Joan H. Wheeler (Wright) of Thunder Bay passed away May 26, 2026 at age 93.
Joan was born in Sault Ste. Marie ON Sept 9, 1932. She moved to Fort William, then later to Port Arthur at age 6.
In 1957 Joan married W. James Wheeler at St. Paul’s United in Port Arthur. They grew up together starting at Pine St. School, in grade one. Joan graduated from Teachers College in 1952, with life-long friend Jackie Dennis whom she travelled to Europe with while they were both single and then moved to North York in 1956 to teach school. Joan also taught at Jumbo Gardens and Shuniah Schools in Port Arthur. She was a substitute teacher for years once the children were all in school.
Joan and Jim lived in Toronto, Boucherville QC, Kingston, Ottawa and then Thunder Bay where she continued to be super-mom to 6 children born over 4.5 yrs. Joan was just 28 when diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. She didn’t let it slow her down.
Joan’s volunteerism and community involvement included 50+ years as an active member of Trinity United Church on many committees. She was also active at 55Plus, The General Hospital, and Thunder Bay Regional Hospital Volunteer Association with thousands of hours over more than 20 yrs. She was a member of the quilters group, crafters group and a Girl Guide & Ranger Leader.
At age 43 Joan qualified as a certified Power Squadron (boater pro) in preparation for being Jim’s “first mate”. Joan enjoyed sailing on their 39ft sailboat “AGATE” in Florida, the Bahamas and Caribbean during their 5 retirement winters. At age 45 Joan graduated from Confederation College with a General Business diploma and became the bookkeeper for Magnus Theatre.
Joan enjoyed years of social activities including dominos, bridge, and cards with her friends all around town and with the “|Oasis” group at Academy/Bayview Towers where she lived for 28 years once widowed. She was a trooper, soldiering on, living life to the fullest after losing Jim. Joan loved her decades of summers at camp at Two Island Lake. She always said her kids were her greatest joy and accomplishment. Joan’s positivity brought joy and smiles to so many, (and often baked-goods).
Joan is survived by her 6 children: Barb (George) Ager, Susan (Malcolm) Drever, Debbie Walker, David (Janet) Wheeler, Doug Wheeler, and Robert(Monique) Wheeler. Also included are 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Joan is predeceased by her parents, her spouse Jim Wheeler, son-in-law Tim Walker and 2 grandsons, Michael and Dougie.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thurs. June 4, 2026 at Sargent & Son’s Chapel 21 N. Court St. Reception to follow. Family requests donations be made to Trinity United Church or the charity of your choice.
