Obituary of Joan Harriett Lapp

Joan Harriett LAPP (Donnelly), age 89, of Waterloo, died on Monday, June 10, 2024, having fulfilled what she believed to be the ultimate goal: leaving behind people who love one another, and who will care for one another.

She is survived by her sister Eade Duncan, her daughters Tracy Gerster (Brad) and Elizabeth Crowe-Joong, and her stepchildren, Susan Lapp (David) and Geoffrey Lapp (Lorraine). She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, Sydney Donnelly and Anna Mahood of Kingston, Ont., her sister Elizabeth Baxter, her son-in-law Paul Joong, her stepson David Lapp (Lee), and her love and favourite sparring partner — Don Lapp, her husband of 37 years.

Joan was born on October 30, 1934, in Montreal, Que. She lived in Montreal and nearby Knowlton until she moved to Waterloo with Don in 1982. As a single mother in the 1970s, Joan had to fight hard to become a registered nurse, but it was her life’s work. She worked with the aged and dying at Central Park Lodge (Forest Heights LTC) until her retirement in 1999, at which point she became a regular volunteer. She believed laughter was the best medicine.

Joan represented home and family to a great many people. She will be remembered for her dessert fridge, her steady supply of pink pop, boxed wine, After Eight chocolates, and so much more. Joan gave the best presents and never missed a birthday or celebratory occasion. She liked to swim, and she helped many of her grandchildren learn to swim — taking them for summertime adventures at Proctor Lake, one of her happiest places.

Joan was a social butterfly with a wicked sense of humour and many quick quips. To know her was to know not to interrupt her when she was watching Jeopardy! or Wheel of Fortune with her friends. Joan was stubborn and a stickler for card etiquette. She enjoyed playing Bridge and hosting parties. She never shied away from adventure.

The family is grateful for everyone who helped sit palliative for Joan, as she did for so many others. The family thanks the community at Waterloo Heights for providing Joan with such a welcoming home for her final years, and First United Church for being her supportive spiritual community for decades.

Visitation will take place at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Friday, June 14, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place at First United Church, 16 William St. W, Waterloo, on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow in the Church Hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the House of Friendship. Donations may be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.