JOAN BARBARA "JOANIE" KNOWLES

(née Russell) Joan Barbara "Joanie" Knowles (née Russell), of Toronto, Ontario, passed away peacefully at home on July 23rd, at the age of 88. Born and raised in Toronto, Joanie attended St. Clement's School, where she balanced academic success with a healthy dose of mischief, including the occasional window escape to skip class. Her sharp intellect shone early; she earned the highest mark in Ontario on her Grade 13 history exam, a proud achievement that hinted at the lifelong learner she would become. She later studied nursing and began her career caring for children at SickKids Hospital, an early reflection of her enduring devotion to others. Joanie met the love of her life, Richard "Ian" Knowles, on Georgian Bay, where she spent every summer of her childhood on Sunset Island. Together, they built a life rooted in tradition, adventure, and family. She was predeceased by Ian; and is survived by their four children, Karen, Kathy, Michael, and Kelley; her cherished grandchildren, Joe, Jack, Griffin, and Charlie; and her sons-in-law, Jeff Craig and Doug Lewis. Family was central to Joanie's life. Whether it was winter weekends at Caledon Ski Club, where she and Ian packed the station wagon for snowy adventures with "Tout Le Gang," or summers at Bone Island on Georgian Bay, Joanie created an atmosphere full of fun, rhythm, and lasting memories. Life at home on Hillhurst Boulevard was just as lively, filled with decades of laughter and legendary antics with their mischievous neighbors. Sunday dinners of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding were a sacred ritual, laying down strong family roots and cherished traditions that will carry on in her honor. Joanie gave generously of her time, volunteering with The Junior League and later supporting youth ski racing through the Southern Ontario Division. Her deep devotion to others continued into her 32-year career at Sporting Life, where she touched the lives of countless customers and colleagues, offering genuine care and honest wisdom - whether you were ready for it or not! Known for her intelligence and determination, Joanie was a powerful force in the lives of so many. She had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued, whether it was a lifelong friend, a client, or someone she'd just met. She made a point of checking in with those she loved, offering a kind word, support, or simply a thoughtful hello. In her "Tout Le Gang" days, Joanie began collecting owls, symbols of wisdom that reflected her love of learning and insight. Later, she turned to hummingbirds, representing love, joy, and strength - qualities she lived out with quiet resolve. Her faith was a steady source of strength. She began each day reading passages from the Bible, grounding herself in scripture and quiet reflection. A lifelong learner, Joanie was an avid reader who always had several books on the go. She frequently clipped articles from The Atlantic or The New York Times, passing them along to the family member she felt would appreciate them most. After retiring, she became just as passionate about puzzles, often spending hours happily piecing them together with a cup of tea by her side. Joanie loved her children fiercely and would move mountains to protect and provide for them. Her legacy lives on in their lives, and in the many others she uplifted through her kindness, strength, and enduring devotion. A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SickKids Foundation, or the Charity of Your Choice, in Joanie's memory.