Elinor "Joan" Dumaresq July 31, 1938 - October 18, 2025
Elinor "Joan" Dumaresq, 87, of Vancouver and Salt Spring Island, passed away peacefully on October 18th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
She will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of 66 years, David; her children Shelly (Ken), Joel (Marousa), Jason, Stefanie (Chris); and her beloved grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nanu - Josh (Laeti), Elijah, Nicholas and Riley - along with her cherished great-grandson Timo. She is also survived by her siblings, David (Judy) and Carolyn (Gerry).
Born in Vancouver on July 31, 1938, Joan was the eldest of three children of James "Stewart" and Faye Begg. She was a proud graduate of Little Flower Academy, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed the grace, humour and kindness that would define her throughout her life.
In 1959, Joan married David and together they created a family and life overflowing with love and laughter. Joan's proudest role was being a mom and their home was always a welcoming haven where family gathered, friends dropped by, and newcomers quickly became old friends.
She lived with a joyful, vibrant spirit - kind, funny and a bit mischievous. Joan was refreshingly authentic and unapologetically herself - she spoke her mind with honesty, warmth and humour. Though she lived with pain for much of her life, she faced everyday with courage and grace that inspired everyone around her.
Her love of colour shone through in all she touched - her homes, clothing and signature glasses reflected her bold style and vibrant personality. She loved life's simple pleasures: dinners filled with laughter, games of backgammon or crib with her grandchildren and quiet evenings with David at Pohailani and Hummingbird Haven on Salt Spring Island.
Joan and David shared many adventures together, traveling the world and collecting memories across many countries. Closer to home, some of their happiest times were spent with their dear friends, The Bridge Group, whose companionship and laughter enriched their lives.
A lifelong dog lover, Joan shared her heart with many cherished companions - all of whom were as much a part of the family as anyone else.
Beloved by many, Joan will be remembered for her generous heart, quick wit and her remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen, valued and loved. Her spirit lives on in the kindness she showed, the laughter she inspired and the love she gave so freely.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to her devoted caregivers, Kerrie, Angie and Froy , the pharmacy staff at Country Grocer who meticulously watched over Joan's medications and to the wonderful doctors and nurses at VGH who provided Joan with such compassion and attentive care.
A funeral mass will be held in Vancouver at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church at 2p.m. on Wednesday, October 29th, followed by a celebration of Joan's life at Shaughnessy Golf Club. In honour of her love of colour, guests are invited to wear something "bright and cheerful" - by her special request.
