Joan Germann Obituary, Death -Joan Germann lost her battle with cancer on Tuesday, dying peacefully. Her husband Tom, children Angela Harris and Tim Harris, Craig Germann and Krystin Kirkland, grandchildren Benjamin Harris, Olivia Harris, and Brielle Germann, sister Bette Castanier and brother-in-law Jim Castanier.
As well as a large number of adoring nieces, nephews, and in-laws, survive Joan. Joan was preceded in death by her father Benard ten Brink, her infant daughter Karen, and her mother Dorothea ten Brink. Joan attended St. Mary’s High School and later graduated from Wilfred Laurier University with a Bachelor of Arts. The Ontario Teacher College is where she later earned her bachelor’s degree in education.
Over 1000 kids were taught by Joan throughout her 42 years as an elementary teacher in the Waterloo District Catholic School Board. She had a burning desire to see every student thrive in the classroom, particularly in reading and math. Every student’s growth during the year she taught them brought her joy. She also enjoyed leading the girls’ school basketball team to numerous victories.
Tom and Joan, who had been high school sweethearts, got married in July 1979 and have since loved taking their family on vacation to many memorable locations, particularly Myrtle Beach and Port Charlotte, Florida. With her family and friends, Joan enjoyed spending the summers at their cottage on Francis Lake.
You could frequently see Joan cruising the lake on her Sea-Doo. You could always count on delicious food and good times at one of Joan’s gatherings at her Mannheim home! For the last several years, Mom has really enjoyed indulging her grandchildren and building with Lego. We will all miss her kindness and charity.
On Sunday, August 13, 2023, Joan’s family will host friends and family from 1-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick Street, Kitchener, 519-749-8467. On Monday, August 14, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., there will be a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mark Roman Catholic Parish, 55 Driftwood Drive. Following is a reception in the church hall. Woodland Cemetery interment.
