Joyce Painter

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joyce Painter, beloved wife of Cy Painter, on Sunday, April 26, 2020 at the age 83 years in Portage la Prairie.

Joyce was well named, because joy was what she brought to a room. She found humour in everything. And when she laughed, the room joined her, because her laugh was impossible to ignore. She had a big heart and passed her amazing empathy on to her family.

Joyce was born in the town of Neepawa on August 24, 1936 to Alma and Earl Crandell and was their only child. She had fond memories of growing up in Riding Mountain being surrounded by family and friends. Joyce married the love of her life, Cy in June of 1957 and they made their home in Portage la Prairie. Together they raised their two children Debbie (Orvel) and Dan (Lorne). The house was filled with warmth and laughter. And practical jokes. Yes, Joyce loved to play practical jokes. Anyone could be a target, so she raised children that appreciated life but learned to sleep with one eye open. Time with family was one of her many pleasures and family dinners were a special time for all to be together, whether a simple family meal or special occasions. No one ever walked away hungry. Joyce and Cy became avid campers and set up their trailer across the prairies. Time was spent enjoying nature and close friends. Joyce built strong relationships with friends. Gladys and Margaret have been with Joyce from both her early adulthood to her time at Lions Prairie Manor and really are her de facto sisters. It was with great excitement that Joyce and Cy welcomed a new focus in their lives, their grandson Brandon.  Joyce spent wonderful moments with Brandon in their time together.  Once retired, Joyce was also fortunate to spend more time with her mother Alma and stepfather Howard during their twilight years. Having this time meant so much to Joyce.

Joyce worked in various businesses and enjoyed her work, but her true joy came from the many relationships she built with both her coworkers, customers, and students. In her late teens, Joyce took a year to teach school in a one room schoolhouse in Hartford and carried fond memories of that experience throughout her life. Later came work at the Portage Mutual followed by Simpson Sears and finally at McCain. They brought strong relationships with colleagues and customers that carried on long after she left.

Joyce spent her final years at Lions Prairie Manor. She continued as she had always lived, connecting with those around her. The family cannot thank the Parkside staff enough for their compassionate and excellent care during Joyce’s time there.

Joyce was predeceased by her mother Alma Buchanan, father Earl Crandell and stepfather Howard Buchanan.

Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, a memorial service will take place at a later date with interment at Evergreen Memorial Garden Columbarium.

In celebration of Joyce’s life, if friends so wish, donations may be made in Joyce’s memory to Lions Prairie Manor Foundation,  24-9th Street SE, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3V4.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com