Joanne CHAFE Obituary

Published by Ottawa Citizen from Feb. 19 to Feb. 21, 2012.

CHAFE, Joanne
Passed peacefully away on Friday, February 17th, 2012 at the age of 60. Predeceased by her husband Jan Kolaczek in 1999, by her mother Philomena in 2001 and her father Gerald in 2004.
Leaving to mourn is her sister Carolyn Green and her brother Frank Chafe (wife Linda). Cherished aunt of Randal Power, Joanna Green, Erika Chafe (fiancé Mitchell Stead) and Mark Chafe all of St. John's, Newfoundland. Joanne is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. After working with the Roman Catholic School Board in St. John's, Newfoundland, as a Religious Education Coordinator, Joanne worked for 37 years in the National Office of Religious Education of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. She served as President of the Religious Education Association of the United States and Canada. Joanne was very well respected and admired by her peers for her competency and professionalism. She will be sadly missed by many friends and co-workers.
Family and friends may pay respects at the Kelly Funeral Home, 585 Somerset Street West (Centretown) Monday, February 20, 2012 and Tuesday, February 21, 2012 from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral Wednesday, February 22nd, 2012 at Annunciation of the Lord Church (2414 Ogilvie Road ) for Mass of Christian Funeral at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at a later date in St. John's, Newfoundland. In Memoriam donations to a charity of choice are appreciated. www.kellyfh.ca


To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Joanne CHAFE

What is your first memory of Joanne?

Share a favorite memory you have of Joanne.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Joanne.

Describe a time when Joanne made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Joanne?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Joanne.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Joanne.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Joanne.

What is something you learned from Joanne?

Not sure what to say?

97 Entries

February 16, 2019

Friend

Patrick & Lucy Fleming

Joanne Chafe was a Lady and dear Friend to both ourselves and to all who were blessed to share her time. Joanne brought many a pilgrimage to that beautiful Shrine of St. Anne -de-Beaupre ,Quebec. She was a wonderful resource person and a Church Leader who is missed by her community at large.
Joanne Chafe always made time for you as if you were the most important person in the world. Joanne was a real living example of what a true Christian person ought to be.
We loved her so and she is missed and much loved to this very day ... One can not help but miss such a loving kind disciple of the Lord.

February 15, 2019

Aidan Dasaah (Rev)

February 14, 2019

Family

Dean Parlee

Praying for the Peace of Christ for you in Heaven on this Valentine's Day Joanne, I know you are a caring Angel watching over us all ... God Bless

February 13, 2019

Friend

Mary MacLean

Joanne was a wise, kind, hard-working Christian leader who always inspired me to work harder in catechetics. I still think of her often enjoying the rewards for her service.

May 30, 2012

Anne Comeaux

Please excuse my tardiness; it is not because I have not been thinking of Joanne. My work with her over the years has been filled with admiration and respect. Our catechetical experiences at conferences and meetings were wonderful. And there were fun times too; her laugh will always be in my heart. Peace and prayers for all who loved her.

April 19, 2012

Peter Kim Se Mang SJ

Joanne was a gracious person and inspiring church leader ... she will be deeply missed by those who have met her in the international forum of adult religious education ... and in Malaysia and Singapore. May the light of the risen Christ shine brightly upon her. Sincere condolences to her loved ones who mourn their loss.

March 19, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

March 16, 2012

Dorothy Burns

My condolences to Joanne's family and the innumerable friends and colleagues touched by her life. Joanne loved the Lord and it showed in everything she did. She inspired and affirmed me in my catechetical work through her down to earth insights and great stories. Her tireless work in the vineyard has born much fruit and will continue to do so. She leaves behind a wonderful legacy and many "seeds" yet to sprout. She will be greatly missed, but we can rejoice that she has gone to be with her Lord whom she so deeply loved.

March 1, 2012

Marie Salamoun-Dunne

I was shocked and saddened to learn of Joanne's death. I always knew that she was "there" for me. We shared many losses but still found joy in our lives. We talked and laughed about the days of our youth, strolling around Brigus while staying with her Auntie Carmel. She was kind, compassionate, fun-loving, intelligent and a woman of faith. My sincere condolences are sent to her brother Frank, sister Carolyn, their families as well as Joanne's extended family.
Rest in peace sweet lady. I will miss you.

February 26, 2012

Dobie & Lisa Moser

I was saddened to learn that Joanne has left us. She had a sparkle in her eye and a joy that she shared with all. When she came to Cleveland it was shortly after her husband Jan had passed. She was mourning and loved Jan deeply - it was very touching. She longed to be with him again - now they live together with God and their joy is no doubt spilling over. We already miss you Joanne - you left us too soon. Love and peace to your family. Dobie & Lisa Moser, Cleveland

February 25, 2012

It is with much sadness that I learned of Joanne's death. I had the privilege and the pleasure of working with her during many years when I was with the CCCB. With her great professionnalism, her inexhaustible energy, her generosity and her kindness, Joanne was an inspiration. My sincere condolences to her family and all her friends and colleagues.

Yves Leclair

February 24, 2012

Mary MacLean

To Joanne's family,
I, and I know so many others who came to know Joanne through her ministry to the Catholic Church in Canada, grieve her sudden death. She was so capable, committed, loving, and humble that she will be remembered in our hearts whenever and wherever "catechesis" is thought about especially here in our country, but also in many other countries. A truly beautiful lady, Christian, storyteller, and leader. Her reward will be great! Thank you for sharing Joanne with us!

February 24, 2012

Fr. William Hann

Dear Jo-Ann

Your leagacy of love inspired generations! You will be missed! Thank you for forming me to be a man of faith and faith in action. As a fellow Newfoundlander, I was and am proud of you!

February 24, 2012

Yvan Beaudoin

My deepest condolences to Joanne's family and friends. As the Religious Coordinator for Catholic Schools in St. Paul and the Catechetical Director for several years in the Diocese of St. Paul I had the privilege of working with Joanne throughout the years. I always found Joanne to be a vibrant person with a great sense of humor, enthusiastic for the Lord and very resourceful. She truly embodied what it meant to be a master catechist. Her contributions to catechesis in Canada will long be remembered. May she rest in peace. “Well done, my good and faithful servant! … Come on in and share my happiness!” (Mat. 25: 21)

February 23, 2012

To the family of Joanne, so sorry to hear of her passing may she rest In Peace. Ann Baker Hampton Virginia

February 23, 2012

Lillian Culumovic

I met Joanne in the early 80's when I did her colours & styles. That was when I first came to know her sense of humour as well as her deep faith! It was great to meet some of her family and collegues. As the years went by we kept in touch to chat and catch up on the paths life took us on. Joanne always had a word of wisdom to share and a chuckle as well.
Condolences to her family. I will miss you Joanne.
Lillian Culumovic

February 22, 2012

ann Matthews

Joanne was a fantastic lady and always a source of inspiration.

February 22, 2012

Dianne Barker

So disheartened to hear of Joanne's death. What a tremendous wealth of energy she spent for the Lord. May she rest in peace.

February 22, 2012

Ray & Kathy Latour

We often met Joanne at the Shrine of St. Anne de Beaupre. After Mass and the evening procession, we would break bread. Without fail, we would recognize Him in the breaking of the bread. Well done Joanne; celebrate with the Lord of the Dance!
Ray & Kathy Latour
Mt. Arlington, NJ

February 22, 2012

Alicia Zubot

I met Joanne for the first time at the WCCRE in Banff Nov. 2011. She was an inspiration and shone with a bright light as she shared about her journey and physical struggles with health in recent times. I will remember her in the moments of conversation we shared. God bless her soul, and may she rest in Heaven with the Holy Trinity, Mary, the angels and saints forever!

February 22, 2012

Tony Clarke

I too wish to extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Joanne. I worked with Joanne while I was co-director of the CCCB's Social Affairs Department during the 1980s and early 1990s. We collaboarated together on a number of joint releigious education and social justice projects. I have many fond memories of our work together including humorous moments. May you rest in peace, Joanne!

February 22, 2012

Veronica Murphy

My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Joanne. I too had the privilege of working with her on the Steering Group for the International Consultations on Adult Religious Education. I have so many happy memories and will always appreciate the graciousness with which she led these meetings and the wise words she shared so freely.
Rest in Peace Joanne - you made many friends here in the UK and we will remember you in prayer.

Veronica Murphy Liverpool Archdiocese

February 22, 2012

Deacon Charles Fink

Truly, Joanne fulfilled her calling. I had the pleasure of attending a seminar in Ottawa that she facilitated. I found her to be authentic, and extremely articulate. What a loss to the Church, what a gift she has been. My condolences to her family and those who were close to her.

February 22, 2012

Helen Martinez, PBVM

Joanne was in my high school class at HHM. Even then, she was a delight and a joy to know. We chatted occasionally over the years. She was a woman who loved much and it was precisely that love which changed everything. Nothing can ever really stay the same because of it. Perhaps, what I recognize in Joanne is a woman who was a God seeker, who preached the Gospel by her life.

February 22, 2012

Lee McCoy

I often think of a metaphor that Joanne used: You never know where your shadow will fall. The comments in this guest book are certainly testament to how far and wide Joanne's shadow fell. She was a very bright light who led the way for many of us in the field of catechesis and adult faith development. We have learned so much from her. She shall be missed. My condolences to her family and friends.

February 22, 2012

Noel Shuell

I send my deepest sympathy to Joanne's relatives, colleagues, and many other loved ones. Besides her contacts with me in Newfoundland, we were both active in the Religious Education Association of America and Canada, an international interfaith association. She served as Board member and President in the 1980s, and she encouraged me to do the same in the 1990s. While centering her work in Roman Catholic education, she always recognized that religious education is a multi-faith, universal work. I am grateful for the time she had with us to do so many good works. And I am stunned and saddened by her sudden absence. I believe she is certainly at peace, but not resting -- most likely, celebrating. May God continue to bless Joanne. May God and Joanne continue to bless us.

February 21, 2012

Christine Shepherd

My sincere condolences to Joanne's family and friends.
Thank you Joanne for all your guidance and advice....
May you rest in peace.

With Love

February 21, 2012

Patrick & Lucy Fleming

Joanne Chafe, our dear and sincere friend for over thirty years was truly a good and faithful servant of the risen Christ. In her presence one could feel the love, care, tenderness and compassion of one who was in full union with the Lord. Her passion and love for St. Anne was evident in the many pilgrimages she organized with love for her many pilgrims from Newfoundland and Labrador. Joanne will be a great loss to the Church, CCCB, her family, her friends, her colleagues, her fellow pilgrims and the Christian communities at large. God has graced us with her presence and has now claimed her for His own. Good St. Anne, Our Lady, her parents , ancestors and the Lord Himself have welcomed her Home to dwell with the angels and saints. Rest in peace good and faithful servant. You will be sadly missed and forever Loved. Thank you for being you.
Pat and Lucy Fleming, St. John's, NL.

February 21, 2012

Jane Phillipson

Francois Mauriac once wrote about friendship: "If you are friends with Christ many others will warm themselves at your fire" I thank God for Joanne's many gifts, and especially for her friendship with Christ, which touched me deeply. In remembering her warmth, may our hearts all burn more brightly. I think that would be a lovely tribute.

February 21, 2012

Joanne was a dear colleague and friend since we first met in the late 70s at an adult religious education forum hosted by the National Council of Churches. On many occasions she extended a helping hand and wise advice when I most needed it. We both worked in adult faith formation and regularly shared our insights with each other, although I have no doubt that I learned more from her than she did from me. She was a first-rate minister of the Gospel and her loss to the catechetical community will be felt for some time. All of us in the United States who worked with Joanne deeply admired and loved our dear Canadian friend. May we continue to be guided by her example and rich legacy of wisdom.
- Neil A. Parent

February 21, 2012

Jeannette Filthaut SP

Thank you to Joanne for all the great catechetical work she provided for the Catholic church and catechists. It was a privilege to have worked with her in Adult Education and at the CCCB. She will be missed, but has trained many to share the good news of the gospel. May she rest in peace for being a faith-filled servant of God. With prayer and gratitude,

February 21, 2012

Joanne, my cousin, was a remarkable young woman who I'll always remember. I spoke with her only two months ago and I'll cherish that conversation. My condolences to Joanne's family and friends.

Eileen Madden, St. John's, NL

February 21, 2012

Pauline Sandberg

What a legacy Joanne has left towards that "New Sptingtime of Evangelization" with her contribution to "On Good Soil." Thank you for your inspiration Joanne.Walk on in peace.

February 21, 2012

Fanny Pedraza

My sincere condolences to the members of Joanne's family at this moment of loss. My prayers are with you. Joanne left a great legacy to the catechetical ministry. May she rest in peace.

February 21, 2012

Mary Ann Ronan

My deepest sympathy to Joanne's family and to her church family. She was recognized by fellow catechists for her leadership, insights, writing but most of all grace. Thank you, Joanne for being a disciple and teaching all of us the Kingdom of God is begger and better than any of us can imagine. Rest in peace.

February 21, 2012

My sympathy and prayers are with Joanne's family at this time. Joanne was a wonderful lady who was a gift to Catholic Education. We will miss her expertise in this area. Alene Mutala (Edmonton, Alberta)

February 21, 2012

Pauline Sandberg

What a legacy Joanne has left towards that "New Sptingtime of Evangelization" with her contribution to "On Good Soil." Thank you for your inspiration Joanne.Walk on in peace.

February 21, 2012

Susan Barylo

My first post went through as 'anonymous, so I am re-posting: Joanne Chafe was brilliant, personable, kind, and a hoot at a party! She was a 'master' catechist with an incredible passion for her craft of handing on the faith. I am thankful I had two short years to learn from her, and hope in some small way to "continue Christ" in the Church as she did. Rest in peace, gracious lady!

February 21, 2012

Andrew Bartley & Corinne Walsh

We were blessed by Joanne's abundant life and fruitful ministry, and grateful to call her a friend. We admired Joanne's dedication, passion and compassion for others. Like her mother, Joanne had a wonderful way - always so hospitable and kind. She was a delightful, joyful force to be reckoned with who will be sadly missed. May God comfort all of Joanne's family, friends and co-workers as we celebrate her life well lived and well loved.

February 21, 2012

Rev. Fr. Aidan Dasaah

My sincere and profound condolences to Joanne's family and close friends. It has been a privilege and an honour for me to get to know her. She is a great lady, courageous, competent and faith-filled. We had dinner together in her house in Ottawa on 27th December 2011. Little did I know that it was the "Last Supper". She did not wash my feet, but she touched my heart with her life and I shall miss her greatly.
May God, our loving Father, give her a place of refreshment in the bosom of Abraham. REV. FR. AIDAN DASAAH

February 21, 2012

Brenda Peddigrew

I worked on a writing committee of the CCCB which Joanne brilliantly chaired during the 80's. She was a great leader, listener,synthesizer and writer. We have lost a great soul. I also come from St. John's, NL and know her family...(Sr. Brenda Peddigrew, RSM.)

February 21, 2012

My Condolences to Joanne's family and friends. The catechetical community will miss you, Joanne. Paz y Bien!

Sr. Gloria DeJesus, Diocese of Stockton

February 21, 2012

David Riley

I worked with Joanne when she served on the NACARE committee in the early 1990's. I am very sad to hear of her sudden passing. Her love for adult faith growth and her leadership qualities will be sorely missed by all of us in the catechetical community. May she rest in peace in the loving arms of her Lord.

February 21, 2012

Mary Lou Neckel-James

I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Joanne's death. I looked forward to visiting with her and catching up on the "latest" every year at NCCL. Joanne was truly an unsurpassed leader in adult faith formation! She will be greatly missed. I will miss her great stories, her deep faith and her devotion to St. Ann.

February 21, 2012

Sr. Edith Prendergast

Deepest sympathy to the Chafe family.Joanne was gift and blessing to so many of us. Her vision, expertize and love for the Ministry of Religious Education was shared across the world. She touched lives and hearts in so many venues. We will certainly miss her presence and enthusiasm. We hold her in prayer and in gratitude for all that she is so so many. Blessings on the journey, Joanne.

February 21, 2012

Gael Gensler

Peace to Joanne's family and friends and thank you to to God for the gift of this dedicated catechist and tireless worker in the vineyard.

February 21, 2012

Mike MacDonald

Condolences to Joanne's family. If I add "and to her loved ones," I know that brings in thousands more. Thank you, Joanne, for everything. The Archdiocese of Regina will miss you. Shalom.

February 21, 2012

Mary Helen Llañez

To all who came in contactwith Joanne and got to know this marvelous spirit, we are the better for it. To her family and friends,peace and good memories are sent your way.

February 21, 2012

I am still shocked and so sorry to hear that Joanne has passed away. A great lady, a great friend, a great colleague, and so shortly after the death of her long-time Assistant, Simonne. I am deeply affected by these two departures.
My sincere sympaties to Carolyn and Frank, and their families.
With you in Faith, Hope and Prayers.
Huguette Isabelle (Gatineau, QC)

February 21, 2012

Sympathy to famliy and friends.
We thank go for Joanne's life of service, expression of God's great love for you.

Peace & Prayers,
Sr. Alice Marie

February 21, 2012

Denise Dalton

My deepest sympathy to Joanne's family. Joanne tirelessly shared her amazing gifts for the good of the Canadian Church and beyond. She will be greatly missed.

February 21, 2012

Ken Mansfield

I haven't been in touch with Joanne since I left Newfoundland and moved to St. Peter's Monastery, Muenster, Saskatchewan. Last year I moved to the Ottawa Valley and one of the 1st phone calls I made was to re-connect with Joanne. We had planned to meet for coffee in November but it didn't happen. I'm sorry we didn't connect and now it's too late. Rest in Peace, Joanne...Ken Mansfield

February 21, 2012

Kathleen (Holden) Sheppard

My deepest sympathies to the Chafe family on the passing of Joanne. I went to elementary in the Goulds and high school in St. John's with Joanne but have not seen her since. A cousin of hers was kind enough to pass along the news of her illness and passing. Again my deepest sympathy

February 21, 2012

Maureen Shaughnessy

I am so sorry to hear of Joanne's death. I have known Joanne for more than 25 years and had the privilege of working with her over that time. She was a woman of grace, and had a vision of church and faith formation that was energizing and life giving. Her work internationally in leading the Adult Faith Formation Conferences held over the past 25 years is a lasting contribution to the universal church.
She will be greatly missed I will have Joanne remembered in prayer at our community My sympathy to her family whom she deeply loved and spoke of often. Peace, Maureen Shaughnessy, SC

February 21, 2012

Lori Dahlhoff

My sympathy to all who love and mourn Joanne. I first met Joanne almost 20 years ago as a new catechetical leader and considered her a guide in effective ministry. Her integrity, and magnanimous spirit are gifts to the world and will live on in all who had the blessing of meeting her. May the angels rejoice with her in paradise.

February 21, 2012

Butch Ekstrom

Joanne was a lovely person, a fine professional, and a help to me. May she rest, forever, in peace.

February 21, 2012

Michael Raffio

Joanne was highly respected in her church, her country, and around the world. Her zeal for and love of all things catechetical earned her great and well-deserved praise.
May it be a comfort to her family (and an inspiration to us all) to know that her life made a difference.

February 21, 2012

I will definitely miss this charismatic woman who's been so kind to everyone! It's a treat to be in conversation with her. - - Cris V. Villapando

February 21, 2012

My deepest sympathy pours out to Joanne's family and her colleagues. I haven't seen Joanne in years but she was a person that one never forgets because she had a magnetic personality that was unforgettable! She was truly a gift to the church, to the catechetical community around the world and to all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Father Terry M. Odien
Cherry Hill, NJ

February 21, 2012

Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski

I had the opportunity to encounter Joanne during a number of conferences and her delightful smile, supportive words and creative imagination inspired me. She was a woman who boldly assumed leadership in the Church and paved the way for encouraging women to be engaged. She is daily remembered in prayer and her name is placed in our Mission Helper of the Sacred Heart Prayer Center.

Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski, MHSH, University of Dayton

February 21, 2012

Cullen Schippe

Joanne was the epitome of the catechist. She was an inspiration. She will be greatly missed.

February 21, 2012

Brendan O'Reilly

"The learned will shine as brightly as the vault of heaven, and those who have instructed many in virtue, as bright as stars for all eternity." (Daniel 12:3) The light of Heaven to you, Joanne.

February 20, 2012

Bernadette Gasslein

Joanne's passion for an adult faith in an adult church were an inspiration. May we honour her memory by continuing to find new ways to renew our commitment to adult faith. My prayers are with the Chafe family, and all her colleagues, past and present, who mourn her passing. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in God's peace.

February 20, 2012

Carol Augustine

Joanne will be dearly missed by the international catechetical community. She was a true advocate of adult faith formation, always willing to share new ideas and insights. May she rest in peace

February 20, 2012

Evelyn Tucker

Thank you Joan for all the love you have shared with so many. May God comfort all those who are grieving your loss.
Evelyn M. Tucker - Medford, OR

February 20, 2012

As an educator, Joanne was a pioneer in applying the principles of Adult Education making catechesis formational, informational and transformational. What a loss to the National Office or Religious Education, to the Canadian Church and to the Church globally. Sending sympathy and prayers to Joanne's family. Carole Murphy, London, Ontario.

February 20, 2012

Paul Kotlowski

May the angels lead her into Paradise and the martyrs come and welcome her.

February 20, 2012

Janet Schaeffler, OP

Joanne was unique in who she was as a person and in all she gave to the ministry of religious education, especially adult faith formation - to so many - throughout the world.

We have lost one of our spectacular leaders. Thank you, Joanne, for all you have given, so generously. You will be missed immensely.

February 20, 2012

Ernie Nedder

I am in shock. Joanne and I met in Newfoundland almost 40 yrs ago. Since then we spent many times meeting, discussing catechesis and sharing insights. She came to my home and stayed with us. I wanted my daughters to meet a woman so dedicated to her church.
She will surely be missed ny many.

February 20, 2012

NCCL Executive Director Leland Nagel

Joanne will be missed by the United States catechetical community. It felt as if Joanne was a member of the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership as she so often participated in our national conference and exposition, as a speaker, collaborator, round table presenter; but mostly as a dedicated colleague. She had a welcoming disposition that engaged anyone whom she encountered. Please be assured of our prayers for her as well as the remaining family in this time of sorrow.

February 20, 2012

Joan Dunne

Remembering and missing a dear cousin. So proud of her as I read the tributes from colleagues and friends across Canada and beyond. Her pilgrimage on Earth is over; she has reached the Home of Love.

February 20, 2012

Jo Rotunno

Joanne had many friends in the catechetical ministry in the Church in the United States. She was of great assistance in the 1990s in the development of the Echoes of Faith program for catechist formation, a project of the U.S. National Conference for Catechetical Leadership produced by my company, RCL Benziger. We became acquainted at that time and remained good friends over the years. I had the greatest admiration for her as a woman and as a catechetical leader. She will be deeply missed by her friends in the U.S.

February 20, 2012

Donna and Tom Burke

Joanne, as her mother before her, was a gracious. remarkable and lovely lady. Our condolences to her family.

February 20, 2012

Feb.20,2012
So sorry to hear of the passing of Joanne. She has touched many hearts and enlightened many minds. Not only a brilliant person in the area of catechesis but a kind and caring person to all. I am blessed to have known her. To her immediate family and her family at NORE my deepest sympathy.
Joan Pettigrew, Bathurst, N.B.

February 20, 2012

Gérald LeBlanc

I was very sad to hear of Joanne's death as she was such a vibrant and dynamic person when we last met at the CCCB plenary in October. Needless to say, we will miss her great sense of humor in our evenings of relaxation at the CCCB plenaries. Having worked very hard to evangelize the young across Canada, may she now reap the fruits of her labor and be immersed in God's love.
Deacon Gerald LeBlanc, Halifax

February 20, 2012

Susan Campbell

Joanne was a wonderful collaborator, superb catechist, incredibly talented administrator and a supportive presence. Her hospitality, storytelling, generous nature and common sense were unsurpassed. It was an honour to have worked with her and to have known her. My condolences to all her family and friends. The Church in Canada has lost a true servant-leader.

February 20, 2012

Nickie Levesque

Dear Joanne: You came into a room and immediately it was bright with your beautiful face and Newfie lilt. You were a consummate professional and every workshop I ever sat through with you facilitating, went like lightning speed. I never tired of listening to you. You have been and will continue to be a treasure to the Spirit of the Gospel. Nickie Levesque

February 20, 2012

Anne Walsh

Joanne was a friend and role model. Her enthusiasm and vision will endure, as will my memories of a vital, committed and inspiring woma.

February 20, 2012

(Sister) Jean Goulet

My sincere sympathy and prayers are extended to the family and friends of Joanne. Joanne was a tremendous educator and a great friend. She is respected throughout Canada by those involved in catechesis, especially, adult faith development. The international conferences that she helped to coordinate were wonderful collaborative learning experiences and Joanne was recognized internationally for her dedication and expertise! It is with deep regret that I will not be with you for her funeral ... Written from Cap Haitien, Haiti.

February 20, 2012

Joanne was a very special cousin and dear friend .We shall misss her greatly. Sincere sympathy to Frank, Carolyn and their families.
Pat & Esther Marshall, St. John's NL

February 20, 2012

Ellen Bennett

What a loss the Church in Canada has faced with the death of Joanne Chafe. She was a good friend and a wonderful witness of living our Christan faith in the world. Maybe it was because she was from Newfoundland that she truly understood the importance of hospitality and had mastered the art of story-telling, both so critical in catechesis. Her keen ability to stay connected to those in this ministry gave us access to her wisdom, insight, knowledge, affirmation and sense of humor. Rest well, my friend.

February 20, 2012

Carmel Doyle

I am so sorry to hear of Joanne's death. I enjoyed working with her and very much respected her.
I know she will be missed and fondly remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

February 20, 2012

Daniel Mulhall

Joanne was a dear friend for the last 25 years. We worked together on several international meetings over the years and I enjoyed her company whenever we met at a conference or event whether in Canada or in the US. Her death comes as a shock and as a terrible sadness. She will be greatly missed on both sides of the US/Canada border and by English-speaking Catholics around the world.

February 20, 2012

Catherine Ecker

Joanne's contribution to the Church in Canada is extensive. Her passion and joy for teaching were wonderful to witness.

February 20, 2012

Donna and Tom Burke

Joanne,as her mother before her,was a remarkable and lovely lady. Our condolences to all of her family.

February 20, 2012

Michelle Miller

Joanne was one of my first professional contacts when I moved to Canada. She was warm, welcoming, competent, and delightfully funny. What a joy to have known her.

February 19, 2012

Joanne Chafe was brilliant, personable, kind, and a hoot at a party! She was a 'master' catechist with an incredible passion for her craft of handing on the faith. I am thankful I had two short years to learn from her, and hope in some small way to "continue Christ" in the Church as she did. Rest in peace, gracious lady! Susan Barylo, Edmonton, AB

February 19, 2012

Anita Andersen

I came to know Joanne only a few years ago through the Atlantic Catechetical Association. I have been enriched by her vast knowledge, her dedication, her humility and her genuine concern for others. She will be missed by many catechists across this country. God blessed Joanne with a brilliant mind and she has used it to serve Him well. What a contribution she has made to the Church! “Rest in peace Joanne. We miss you.” My husband joins me in offering sincere condolences to her family.

February 19, 2012

Joanne will be sadley Missed by the Roman Catholic Church in the World,and a very proud Newfoundlander at that.

February 19, 2012

Pauline Lally

My sincere condolences to Joanne's family and friends. I first Joanne when she first arrived at NORE when we were working on the Grade 6 Catechism. She was a dedicated relgious educator and became one of the best Adult Religious Educators in Canada. What a loss! May she be experiencing the joy of true peace. With love, Pauline Lally, sp

February 19, 2012

Gertrude Mulholland, scic

Joanne has made a great contribution to Catechesis in Canada and throughout the world. She will be dearly missed. I have always appreciated her enthusiasm for this ministry. My condolences to her family.

February 19, 2012

Bill Kokesch

Remembering a dear friend and former colleague. What richness she brought to Christian education.

February 19, 2012

v b

Deus tecum
ex animo,

February 19, 2012

Dean Parlee

Joanne will be dearly missed, her faith and caring nature is certainly are qualities hard to find. I will miss you, God Bless you - be at peace with the Lord.

February 19, 2012

Dean Parlee

Joanne will be dearly missed, her faith and caring nature is certainly a quality hard to find. I know you are now at peace with the Lord, God Bless You.

February 19, 2012

Marilyn / Derm Sullivan

To Chafe family,so sorry to hear of Joanne's passing. She will certainly be missed by all. We had the pleasure of going a group Pilgrimage to St. Anne de Beaupre with her . She was a remarkable lady and she will be missed by all. Rest in Peace Joanne

February 19, 2012

Gerard Whitty

Joanne has made many contributions to Religious Education in Canada, in her passing we are witnessing an end of an era. Creative and committed, Joanne was a wonderful co-worker; we will miss her.

Showing 1 - 97 of 97 results

Make a Donation
in Joanne CHAFE's name

Memorial Events
for Joanne CHAFE

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Joanne's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Joanne CHAFE's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more