Joan Birdie GILKES

Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at the age of 80 at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Joan will be sadly missed by her husband Ernest Gilkes. Dear mother of William (Deana), Donna (Winston), Dorothy, and Paul. Proud grandmother of Brittany (Adam), Daniel (Taylor), John, Paul, Ryan, and Tiernan. Stepmom to Terrance, Nicole (Mark) and Daniel and many loving extended family members.
Joan will be remembered for her incredible love of music. She and Ernie regularly attended the various music jamborees in the area and both were an active member in the Peterborough and surrounding area Country Music scene. She was a member of the Peterborough Pathway of Fame. Joan was also an avid songwriter and was quite proud of the songs that she had recorded. Joan was also known for her amazing knitting projects. Many people still enjoy the many hand knit or crocheted sweaters, hats, mitts and blankets that she painstakingly made for them. If Joan heard of anyone in need, she would immediately hand crochet a blanket for them and make sure it was delivered. Joan will be remembered for her love of animals, both on the farm and in later years, her very spoiled cat, Minnie.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 1, 2023 from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. at HIGHLAND PARK FUNERAL CENTRE, 2510 Bensfort Road, Peterborough. A Memorial Service will commence at 2 p.m. in the Highland Chapel. Interment Highland Park Cemetery. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.highlandparkfuneralcentre.com.