Joyce East
Our beloved Joyce East (Dunn) passed away on November 18th, 2022, at the age of 94, at home with family by her side.
She leaves behind her daughters Julia and Stella, her grandchildren Will, Isadora (Stig), Deirdre (Tyler), Luke and Severin, and great-grandchildren Avery, Sarah, Lorentz, Ella and Owen.
Joyce grew up in London, England. During the war years she met the man who was to become the love of her life; Philip East. In 1950 they married and later, with their two young children, immigrated to Canada to make their home in Ottawa.
Joyce enjoyed the autumn colours of the Gatineau Park and the glittering lakes close to home. The many afternoons spent swimming and picnicking with her young family were some of Joyce’s fondest memories.
Delighting in the company of her grandchildren, Joyce planned numerous vacations with them; the most important being the trips that helped to keep Stella’s family in Norway connected with Julia’s family in Toronto.
Joyce and Philip also enjoyed extensive travel around the world. Her more memorable trips included cruising the Greek Islands and sailing down the Nile.
Among her many accomplishments, Joyce received a Bachelor of Arts degree (English) from Carleton University, was awarded the title Bridge Life Master through her success in North American bridge competitions, and with her flair for design and her boundless creativity, Joyce proudly designed her own home from the ground up.
Her ability to nurture relationships led to important friendships that lasted decades. Other close friendships began recently at Christie Gardens. Visits with family, frequent games of bridge, hosting jazz evenings, and the odd glass of white wine with friends were cherished in her time at Christie Gardens.
A great storyteller with an astounding memory, a wonderful sense of humour, an outgoing personality.
A loving Mom, Nan, Mormor, G.G.Ma and friend.
We will miss you terribly and think of you often.
We would like to thank Christie Gardens for the excellent care Joyce received at the end of her life.
If you would like to make a donation in Joyce East’s memory; please donate to Christie Gardens Charitable Foundation
Brenda Forbes and Lew Bannerman
Our deepest condolences Julia and Deirdre and to your East family on the loss of your beloved Mom and Nan. May your happy memories of her give you comfort and peace in the days and months to come. May she join you in spirit over the holiday season.
Much love
Tim McIntosh
Brenda, I hope all is well. I’m trying to contact Lew. Please tell him I’d like to get in touch with him.
Regards
Tim McIntosh
Naomi Kates
Dear Julia and Stella and family,
Our family sends love and condolences to you all with the fondest memories of Joyce. She filled every room with love and fun and I was looking forward to meeting up with her soon. I know my Dad’s thoughts are with you too right now.
Please let us know when there might be a further memorial planned. With much love, Naomi Kates and family
Naomi Kates
Janet Marsham
Dear Julia, Stella and family
Our deepest condolences. I am so sorry for you loss. We have such fond memories growing up with your family. Our parents were very dear friends and celebrated many occasions together over the years. I remember all the parties and laughter shared over the years with the Spratt family, and the Large family. Phil and our dad playing table tennis! Those were great times. Joyce was always full of interesting stories. She will be dearly missed. You are all in our hearts and prayers!
Love The Marsham Family
Paul Marsham
Julia & Stella
I have the fondest memories of growing up around my parent’s close friends . Auntie Joyce & Uncle Phil, ( everyone was an uncle or aunt back in the day ). I don’t remember your mom ever not smiling and as I reflect, I’m reminded of her distinctive laugh and the fact that she always seemed to take the time to make me feel special when our families were together. We are all products of our upbringing and I’m sure your mom’s glass half full attitude can claim a piece of who I am today. My prayers are on their way. Stay strong and try to focus on all the good times you shared.
Take care
Sandra Nicholls
Dear Stella and Julia,
I was very sad to hear of your mother’s passing, and send you my sincere condolences. I associate much of my childhood with being at your parent’s house, and having the two of you fighting over who was going to play with me! And of course I remember your mum well, her fiery energy and clever wit. Perhaps she and Bunny will catch up somehow, in another realm. This is how I like to imagine it. Love to you both,
Sandra
Sandra Nicholls
My sincere condolences to Joyce’s family. I remember very well from my childhood, being taken by my parents to Joyce and Phil’s home, where her daughters Julia and Stella would fight over who would play with me! And I remember Joyce, with her fiery wit and her infectious laugh, and the way she welcomed me into her family. I know she will be greatly missed, and I wish her peace and comfort wherever she may be.