In Memory of

Joan

Mitchell

(Bursey)

Obituary for Joan Mitchell (Bursey)

THERESA JOAN MITCHELL

1936 - 2020



On December 6, 2020, a great lady, one of life's and Springdale's most precious treasures, Joan (Joanie) Mitchell (nee Bursey) passed away suddenly at Kingsway Retirement Center at the age of 84. Leaving to carry on fond and loving memories are her daughters, Debbie and Donna. Recently predeceased by her son Ken, she left us with a broken heart struggling the day of his birthday, December 5, 2020. Also missing her are Don Totten, son in law, and grandchildren, Bradley and Amy Strickland, who she cherished. She was predeceased by her first love, and love of her life, Max (1999).

Mom was born and raised in Corner Brook, Nfld., on March 10,1936, where she met our Dad, Max Mitchell of Curling; how she loved to tell the story. They then moved to Springdale in 1957, where Dad worked for Imperial Oil, and our family lived a wholesome life for 63 years. Our growing up years were zealous, and full of fun, as our parents were very community minded - as Springdaler’s are; mom was most popular for reminiscing and being the center of the room, or anywhere she was.

We had many road trips to Corner Brook and Curling, up Birchy with studs on in blizzards, to share family time with a multitude of Bursey and Mitchell relatives with many fond gatherings. Leaving to mourn are her brothers, Milton Bursey (Marlene) of N.S., Don Bursey (Myrt) of Corner Brook, her sisters, Joyce Earle and Glenda Johnson, of Corner Brook, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was a great lady and loved by all who knew her.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, Harrison and Annie Bursey, sisters Mavis Bursey, Doreen Bursey, Stella Mollon, Valda Young, Lorraine Drover, Bernice Woodrow, brothers Wayne Bursey, and Robert (and those with respective spouses who are no longer with us).

We wish to acknowledge and give gratitude to our Aunt Glenda, Moms sister, for her endless loyal support to Mom and us children. As well, gratitude to all our Bursey and Mitchell relatives, a numerous circle of aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews.

In Springdale, Joan was well-known around town as a frequent shopper (she loved the stores) her favorites being Foodland, Subway, Lawtons, Rideouts, the Dollarama, and Hairdoos. She loved to “purdy up” with a good turtleneck and a popped collar! Her most favorite saying was: “Let’s take a little drive around town to see what’s going on”, and there were many drives! Mom and Dad were avid curlers and members of the Lions/Lionettes, and more. Moms favorite shows were Dancing with the Stars, Curling, and Wheel of Fortune, not to mention Springdale Bingo and lotto tickets.

Mom marched to the beat of her own drum, and Max’s Esso drums! She was poetic, romantic, vibrant, full of spark and wit; she was the life of a party, and full of shenanigans. Joan (Mom) was a very kind soul; if you came to visit her, you could not leave without taking a small something with you.

We wish to give gratitude and special tribute to Lisa Edison (Warr), Harold and Marg Warr, and the Warr families, Terry and Audrey Rolfe, and the Rolfe families, the Schwartz families and our Eva, Roy and Jeanette Saunders, and the Saunders families, Marie and Jim Jones, to surrounding neighbors, Golda and Cam, Dulcie and Glenn, Bonnie Goudie, and many more. If we have missed you here, forgive us, you know who you are.

We extend appreciation to Dr. Todd Young for his compassion and kindness, and to the Kingsway staff over the 3 months of her time spent there. She was content enjoying the companionship of others.

When having a scout about town, watching curling or her shows, having a toddie, a scoff, or scratching a winning ticket, think of the ways Joan made your day.

Springdale, Corner Brook, Newfoundland Proud!

Rest in peace Mom.

If you wish, donations may be made to a charity or organization of your choosing.

As per her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date