Ionson, Joan Clunie. Peacefully at Norview Lodge, Simcoe on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. Joan (nee Williamson) Ionson, formerly of Jarvis in her 93rd year. Wife of the late William L. Ionson (2002). Beloved mother of Margie Ionson (Peter Ryerse), Greg and Chie, the late Bert (2018) and Diane, late Andrew (2004) and Penny. Sister of Drew Williamson and the late Norma (2016). Friends are invited to call at COOPER FUNERAL HOME, 19 Talbot St. W., Jarvis on Sunday 2-4 p.m. A family graveside service will be held at Knox Presbyterian Church Cemetery. A time to celebrate the life of Joan will be held in August, 2020. if desired, donations may be made to Knox Presbyterian Church or The Alzheimers Society. Friends are invited to sign the Book of Memories at www.cooperfuneralhome.ca

Ionson, Joan Clunie
Joan Ionson (nee Williamson), loving daughter of Oril and Ruby Williamson,
was born in Jarvis, Ontario, on December 12, 1926. From a very early age,
she found joy in the divine wonder of nature, and this was a recurring theme
throughout her entire life. Whether it was working in the garden, watching
birds come and go, walks in the woods or travels all across Canada, she
never lost her sense of awe and love of plants, animals and the everchanging
seasons.
When she first started teaching in Port Dover, she would often take a class of
students to ”second gulley.” She would then divide them up according to
their interests; while some students studied the river life, others might
closely examine the flora and various wildlife, and some just enjoyed a day
outside of the classroom. She acknowledged and valued all perspectives and
always saw the best in her students.
As a girl, she developed an early crush on William Laird Ionson, who lived on
a nearby farm. Later on, when she had almost completed her studies at the
Hamilton Normal School, “she” asked "him” to be her date to the graduation
party. She often remarked that Bill proved such an adept and graceful
dancing partner that she immediately knew he was the guy for her. They
dated for a year while Joan taught at Port Dover Public School. Even though
they resided just 10 kilometers apart and saw each other regularly, they
would still exchange weekly love letters. Joan was delighted when Bill asked
her to marry him.
When she married Bill on September 9, 1950, she was prepared to become a
partner on the farm. She gave it her best (she always did), but eventually
decided the classroom was where she belonged. It was there with her
students that she felt her true calling. She managed to raise four children
and maintain her career, even taking classes part time to earn her BA at
McMaster University, while still highly involved with work on the farm. Later
she taught at Sprucedale school for a number of years transitioning to being
a teacher/librarian. She also had fond memories of her time at St. Joseph’s
School and West Lynn Public School where she ended her career.
Throughout her life’s journey as mother, sister, teacher, and friend, Joan
gave freely of herself without hesitation. She embodied the spirit of giving
and a sincere affection for friends and family. Her selfless devotion and love
for her children, grandchildren and all those close to her was undeniable.
She was a remarkable woman and we are better for knowing her.
Family
Parents: Oril and Ruby Williamson
Beloved brother: Drew Williamson and Norma (d)
Children: James Albert (d) and Diane Ionson; Andrew (d) and Penny;
Margaret (Margie) and Peter; and Gregory and Chie
Grandchildren: Dana and Adam (great grandchildren Leah and Jamie); and
Cari and Alana;
Kelsi and Brian (great grand child Summer); and Devon; and Tyler and
Emma
The family would also like to say thank you to Allen Fralick, for his
companionship and unwavering affection, as well as to everyone at Norview
Lodge and to Chris for their compassion and generosity. We are grateful
that she had such genuinely kind and attentive caregivers. So many of the
Norview staff would take the time to say hello, ask how she was doing, or
give her a warm smile or hug. Our entire family is thankful that Mom was
constantly surrounded by such wonderful, caring people.