It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Joanne, just days after her 61st birthday.

Joanne was predeceased by her parents, Helen and Joseph Lukacs. She was a deeply loved mother to Yasmin (Shaun) and Joey (Michelle), and sister to Corrina (Faron) and Kendra. She was a cherished aunt to Austin, Jessica, Molli, Hunter and Harrison, niece to Patricia and Lorne, and cousin to Jennifer and Chris.

Above all, Joanne treasured being Nana to her granddaughters, Valentina, Raina and Arianna. They were an enormous source of love and happiness in her life, and being their Nana was one of her greatest joys.

Joanne had a big heart and a deep compassion for others. She cared deeply for her family and friends, for the sick and elderly she looked after, and even for strangers who crossed her path and needed help. She was the kind of person who would go out of her way for someone simply because she knew they needed it.

Those who knew Joanne will also remember her incredible attention to detail and her famously immaculate home. Everything had its place, the floors and counters were spotless, and no bed was truly made until every corner was perfectly tucked.

She brought laughter and personality to family gatherings, along with her family-famous potato salad that everyone looked forward to. She loved to knit, making slippers and dishcloths for family and friends, while the pillows, dolls and tiny Barbie clothes she made for her granddaughters always seemed to carry a little extra love.

There are no words large enough for the space Joanne leaves behind. She was a mother, Nana, sister, aunt and friend, and she will be deeply and painfully missed by those who loved her.

We hold onto the hope that this goodbye is not forever, and that one day we will be together again. Until then, Joanne will remain with us—in the stories we tell, the things she made with her hands, the love she gave so freely, and in the hearts of her children and grandchildren.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the ICU nurses at The Ottawa Hospital – General Campus for the compassion and care they showed Joanne and her family during her final days.

As per Joanne’s wishes, a private family gathering of remembrance will be held.

Forever loved. Forever missed.