Joyce Elizabeth Black Obituary in Grande Prairie at Oliver's Funeral Home & Crematorium

Obituaries

Joyce Elizabeth Black

May 21, 1957 - March 08, 2022

Obituary For Joyce Elizabeth Black

The family of Joyce Black is devastated and saddened to announce her sudden passing after a courageous battle with cancer.

A resident of Grande Prairie, AB, formerly of Sault Ste. Marie, ON, Joyce passed away on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, at Grande Prairie Regional Hospital, at the age of 64 years.

She was born in Kincardine, ON, on May 21, 1957, and was raised on a farm just outside nearby Ripley. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree at Wilfrid Laurier University before earning a Bachelor of Education Degree at Queen’s University.

Her early career was focused on daycare supervision in Edmonton, St. Paul and Grande Prairie, AB. Upon moving to Sault Ste. Marie, in 1987, she transitioned into adult education and employment counselling. Returning to Grande Prairie in 2007, she became an employment consultant with The Work Place.

Joyce was compassionate, kind and loving. She always put the needs of others before her own. Even the night before her passing, Joyce was more concerned that her diabetic husband hadn’t eaten all day when hospital staff were preparing to administer much needed pain medication.

She continued to work until just days before her death. Joyce was determined to not be defined by her diagnosis.

She always made time for colleagues and friends in need of an ear.

Joyce had a sharp sense of humour and was both quick witted and sarcastic.

Joyce developed a passion for pottery at the Centre for Creative Arts in Grande Prairie, and within a short time produced saleable items, from bowls and mugs, to farm animals. She also loved passing on her artistic skills to others as an instructor.

Joyce was a voracious reader, particularly of mystery novels. She enjoyed science fiction/fantasy movies and British TV humour and game shows. She keenly traced her family roots and loved Canadian travel.

Joyce will be sadly missed by her husband David Olinger; son Peter Olinger (Mara Macauley); brothers Jim (Kathy) and Dave (Emily); other family in Canada and New Zealand; colleagues at The Work Place; connections in the arts community; as well as friends nationwide.

Joyce was predeceased by her father Walter (1985), mother Mary (2014), and her brother Bill (2013).

The Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, at 11:00am, at Oliver’s Funeral Home in Grande Prairie (10005 107 Ave).

A Livestream of the service will be accessible 15 minutes prior to the service on Joyce’s obituary on Oliver’s Funeral Home website.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society AB/NWT Division (200, 325 Manning Road NE, Calgary, AB, T2E 2P5), or the Sorrentino’s Compassion House (10909 76 Ave., Edmonton, AB, T6G 0J6).

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Condolences

April 04, 2022

Sayler Reins

On behalf of myself and the Compassion House Foundation we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to Joyce's family and friends. May the memories of her bring you comfort the days ahead. Sayler Reins House & Guest Services Manager Sorrentino's Compassion House
March 24, 2022

Dorothy McDonald

I want to send my deepest condolences to the family, friends and co-workers of Joyce. I am absolutely broken hearted over this news. Just the other day I was thinking that I needed to go see Joyce at The Work Place and let her know how I am doing. Joyce was a wonderful lady who helped me get my cover letter and resume all done up so I could get my dream job, unfortunately my health took a turn and I can no longer work, and she was there to help me come to terms with my new life. I will forever be grateful for her coming into my life and I will never forget her. Dorothy McDonald
March 17, 2022

Zoe

Joyce was incredibly kind and welcomed me into her family without hesitation and made me feel very cared for. I was lucky enough to spend some time with Joyce, David and Peter on Vancouver Island a few years back and I had a wonderful time. I cherish those memories. Sending all my love.
March 16, 2022

Marilyn Beckett

What a beautiful ceremony celebrating Joyce. She will be missed by many.
March 16, 2022

Jana Keller

Joyce was always strong willed and well grounded. And as many have said dedicated to giving back to her community. As the youngest sibling and only girl of 4 children (with Doug..making 4 boys and Joyce), She held her own. I'm sure that, the country life, and her ability to truly understand and role model good grounding in our society made her admired and respected in her world. She is missed. Her legacy remains impactful. I had forgotten about her sense of humour and good witt. My fondest memory was when we first moved to ontario and spent some time in Ripley. I'll just say the dog taught both of us why refinishing a maple table is best left to do indoors with the dog on the otherside of a door. Jana Keller.... Mom to her nephew Neal Andrew Keller Black.
March 16, 2022

Anna Marie Madonna

Dave, we were very saddened to hear of Joyce's passing. We will never forget her kindness and generosity. Please accept our sincerest condolences. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time. Terry & Anna Madonna
March 16, 2022

Kevin Macauley

With a heavy heart , I'm an saddened by the loss of Joyce I never had the honour of meeting her but have grown very fond of Peter and can't help but think that there is a large part of her lives on in him All the best to all of Joyce's family Kevin and Melanie Macauley
March 15, 2022

Jennifer Simms

Joyce I will miss your smile and kindness. I didnt know you well. However, every chance we could get together through would we would and enjoy every moment. You helped me have the courage to work outside my comfort zone and so many others I sent your way. Thank you for all the light you brought to this world.
March 15, 2022

Ang

Many years ago I met Joyce at the Work Place. She helped me with my resume and offered me career guidance. I remembered her throughout the years fondly and appreciate her positive impact on my life even now. Condolences to her family and friends❤️

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To view the livestream of Sandra Van Schaick (Saturday at 11:00 am) or Glenn Kochendorfer (Monday at 2:00 pm) visit https://www.facebook.com/olivers.funeral.home/

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