In Memory of

Clara

"Joan"

Dynes

Obituary for Clara "Joan" Dynes

In loving memory of Clara "Joan" Dynes who passed away peacefully with her family by her side at the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital on February 22nd, 2022, in her 92nd year. Loving wife (54 years) and friend of Wilfred "Errol" Dynes (predeceased). Dear mother of Janice (predeceased, 2012) of Collingwood, Marianne of Collingwood and David (Frances) of Sudbury. A cherished Nana and Grandma, she will be greatly missed by her grandchildren, Stuart, Taylor, and Charlotte Hammill, Emily, Kyle, and Kevin Horncastle, Alessandra, Noelle, and Veronica Dynes. Aunt Joan is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews for her compassionate and caring nature. Daughter of Joseph and Margaret (predeceased). Youngest sister of Marge, Jose, Harry, Jack, Frank, and Fred (all predeceased). Loving sister in-law of Hazel McFarlane, Mabel Richardson, Lucille McConnell, Bob, Vernor, Reg, and Lorne Dynes (all predeceased).

The youngest of her six siblings, Joan was graciously spoiled as a little girl and was usually found alongside her parents as they worked and visited family, swimming at the pond in the Glen, or "watching" her brothers and sisters tend to the farm. Family and friends meant the world to Joan. Their wellbeing and happiness was foremost in her thoughts. She was dedicated to remembering the details like birthdays and anniversaries. She often called just to say "I'm thinking of you" and was always the first to share your tears when it came to a loss. Joan remembered her family and friends proudly and loved her people impressively.

In her working life, she was known for her attention to detail. She always balanced to the penny which was invaluable for her time in the family business with Hamilton Brothers and her ventures with Errol running their potato farm and Brock's Grocery in Nottawa (now D&L). While known for her conservative lifestyle and beliefs, good fun and a little risk were never far behind, as she was occasionally spotted at the casino. She loved a good celebration and strived to bring family and friends together in hosting annual Hamilton Christmas parties or helping with church suppers.

In her retirement, Joan and her husband Errol enjoyed road trips to visit their children in Oklahoma and their warm snowbird seasons in Florida. She especially valued her travels to Europe, where she visited her beloved brother Fred's World War II grave in France. Joan and Errol's travelling companions and dear friends (Kathy & John and Doris & Fred) did their best to referee the two love birds and maintain a peaceful atmosphere between the pair. When it came to her grandchildren, Joan was notably curious. She was the first to ask about dating, school, or work endeavours, and just the perfect amount of nosey. Her questions grew from love and a keen interest to be in the know with the little ones she had watched grow.

Joan upheld her tasteful sense of style and always prided herself in dressing the part. Her fashionable and fussy ways kept her timeless. Though saddened with Errol and Janice's passing, Joan appreciated her time tending to her garden, playing Euchre, making friends, and catching up on gossip when she moved to Sunset Village Suites. She was remarkably close with her friend Muriel Lane (predeceased), whom she cherished dearly.

Joan was the mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend who loved so many. She cared deeply and lived truthfully, and we remember her life, light, and humorous spirit. Joan had a wonderful and fulfilling 91 years and is now reunited with her eldest daughter Janice and the friends and family she has long missed. Surely, "Snowflake" is dancing with Dad once again.

A special thanks to Dr. Xie and the 2nd Floor, Surgical Unit nursing and care team at the Collingwood General Marine Hospital for the kindness and care they afforded our Mom. We also wish to thank Pat, a "very special" PSW and friend to Mom. Her kindness and attention to Mom's care was above and beyond and appreciated by her family.

Family and friends will be received for visitation on Friday March 4, 2022, from 6-9 p.m. at Fawcett Funeral Home – Collingwood Chapel. Please use the online RSVP if you wish to attend. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday March 5, 2022, at Holy Trinity Clearview, Duntroon all are welcome. The service will also be available by livestream.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Collingwood General Marine Hospital foundation, the Salvation Army, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and the Canadian Cancer Society.

This poem gave Mom great comfort and we share it once again for her.

When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me
I want no rites in a gloom-filled room
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little, but not too long.
And not with your head bowed low
Remember the love that we once shared
Miss me, but let me go
For this is a journey that all must take
And each must go it alone
It's all part of the Master's plan
A step on the road to home!
When you are lonely and sick at heart
Go to the friends we know
And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds
Miss me, but let me go
I won't be far away, for life goes on
So if you need me, call and I will come
Though you can't see or touch me I'll be near
And if you listen with your heart you will hear
All of my love around you soft and dear
And then, when you must come this way alone
I will greet you with a smile, and "welcome home".


Please note the interment and reception are to be held this summer. Details will be provided at a later date.