JOAN FARLINGER

October 8, 1936 - February 27, 2025 Joan is survived by family in Ontario: her daughter, Margot Witthun, of Orillia; grandchildren, Zachary Witthun (Tara), of Bancroft, and Katie Burchert (Cameron); great-grandchildren, Annie and Isla Burchert of Brechin; and brother, Peter Farlinger (Lynda) of Owen Sound. She was predeceased by her mother, Charlotte; and stepfather, AW "Bud" Farlinger; her son, Stephen; and her husband, David Braide. Born in Toronto, Joan took her early schooling at Saint Clements, which resulted in lifelong friendships, a love for tennis and lifelong love of the arts, especially ballet. With her horse, Assante, she successfully competed in equestrian sports. She held a Master of Social Work degree from The University of Toronto. She enjoyed tours with the Royal Ontario Museum and among her many travels, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. During a kayaking trip, she and David discovered Salt Spring and the decision to move was easily made. A dedicated supporter of ArtSpring, she served on the Board in its early days of policy development, over the years continuing as a patron and a sounding board for programming. As a member a CFUW, she much enjoyed the Conversational French group and, for a time, produced its newsletter, The Lamplighter. Yearly travel to Toronto was always timed with performances of the National Ballet of Canada and equestrian events at the Royal Winter Fair. Joan was a strong supporter of Dying with Dignity, initiating a petition to the Federal Government and forming a chapter on Salt Spring. Throughout her life, Joan remained loyal to her friends and her true beliefs. In her memory, donations may be made to ArtSpring. A celebration of life will be held at ArtSpring at a later date.