Obituary of Maria Joanna Spencer

Maria Joanna (Joanne) Spencer (nee Fojcik) passed away at home on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024 at the age of 98.

Beloved mother of Gloria Faulkner (Roger) and Yvonne Pezzack (John-deceased).  Loving Grandmother of Chris (Debb), Jenny (Todd), Heather (Mark), Anne (Olivier) and Matthew.  Proud Great Grandmother of Spencer, William, Andrew, Anderson, Nicholas, Maverick, Isabelle, Maelle, Malia, Arlo and Odin.  Survived by her sister, Dr. Hilary Fojcik deAragon (Jose) and their sons, John (Anne) and Paul (Irene).  Predeceased by her sister, Claire, and by her husband, Dr. Charles Spencer (1999).

Joanne was born in Poland and emigrated to Canada with her husband by way of England, British Guyana, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, finally settling in Kitchener-Waterloo in 1951.  She was a remarkable woman who was grateful for her many blessings, especially her family, which she always put first. 

Her volunteer work over the years with St. Vincent de Paul, Meals on Wheels and Grand River Hospital and her many generous donations to various charities reflected her commitment to supporting those in need.  Joanne appreciated classical music and volunteered countless hours over the years with the K-W Symphony Orchestra, especially the years when she was chair of the Women’s Committee.  Her favourite fundraiser was the Viennese Ball. 

Joanne’s competitive spirit showed itself in the games she loved, namely badminton and tennis which she played well into her senior years. 

She and her husband enjoyed travelling, the highlight being their world cruise on the Queen Elizabeth II.  For many years they also took winter breaks at their condo in Freeport, Bahamas. 

Joanne had wonderful neighbours and we are very thankful for their friendship and support over the years.  We are especially grateful to Diane Wilkinson and the palliative care team who made it possible for Joanne to remain at home until the end, as she had wished.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Sunday, April 7 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm.  A funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday, April 8 at 11:00 am at St. Agnes Church, 75 Bluevale St. N, Waterloo immediately followed by private inurnment at Parkview Cemetery.  Everyone is invited to a reception at Joanne’s house (nearby) beginning right after the mass.  Condolences for the family and donations to the Red Cross or Salvation Army would be appreciated and may be arranged at www.erbgood.com.