Joan H. Wheeler (Wright) from Thunder Bay passed away on May 26, 2026, at the age of 93.
Joan was born in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, on September 9, 1932. She moved to Fort William and later to Port Arthur when she was just 6 years old.
In 1957, Joan married W. James Wheeler at St. Paul’s United in Port Arthur. They had known each other since grade one at Pine St. School. Joan graduated from Teachers College in 1952 alongside her lifelong friend Jackie Dennis, with whom she traveled to Europe while they were both single before moving to North York in 1956 to teach school. Joan also taught at Jumbo Gardens and Shuniah Schools in Port Arthur and spent many years as a substitute teacher once her children were older.
Joan and Jim lived in several places including Toronto, Boucherville QC, Kingston, Ottawa, and finally Thunder Bay where she thrived as a super-mom to six kids born within just four and a half years. At only 28 years old, Joan was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis but never let it hold her back.
Her dedication to volunteering and community service spanned over fifty years as an active member of Trinity United Church involved in various committees. She also volunteered at the General Hospital and the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital Volunteer Association for more than twenty years contributing thousands of hours. Additionally, she participated in a quilting group, crafters group, and served as a Girl Guide & Ranger Leader.
At age 43, Joan became a certified Power Squadron (boater pro) so that she could be Jim’s “first mate.” She loved sailing on their 39ft sailboat “AGATE” across Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean during five winter retirements together. At age 45, Joan earned a General Business diploma from Confederation College and took on the role of bookkeeper for Magnus Theatre.
She enjoyed countless social activities over the years including playing dominos, bridge, and cards with friends throughout town as well as with the “Oasis” group at Academy/Bayview Towers where she lived for twenty-eight years after becoming widowed. Despite losing Jim, she persevered joyfully living life fully. Her summers spent at camp on Two Island Lake brought her great happiness too. Joan often said her children were her greatest joy and accomplishment; her positive spirit brightened many lives (and often came with baked goods).
Joan is survived by her six children: Barb (George) Ager, Susan (Malcolm) Drever, Debbie Walker, David (Janet) Wheeler, Doug Wheeler, and Robert (Monique) Wheeler along with fifteen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her parents; husband Jim Wheeler; son-in-law Tim Walker; and two grandsons Michael and Dougie.
A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a. m., Thursday June 4th ,2026 at Sargent & Son’s Chapel located at 21 N Court St., followed by a reception afterward. The family requests donations be made to Trinity United Church or your preferred charity.
