Constance Charlotte Joy Groenewegen (nee Yates)
May 27, 1934 – August 15, 2024
With great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Joy Groenewegen at the age of 90.
Above all, Joy’s life was defined by her devotion to her family and to her close friends. She was a proud mother, grandmother and sister; always sharing her love and admiration for her family with others. Despite geographical distance Joy maintained contact with those close to her. She made personal communication a priority with her grandchildren in Winnipeg and Calgary, writing frequent letters and email correspondence. She was active in the growth and development of her Maple Ridge grandchildren, Spencer and Julia, and had a special relationship with her granddaughter Mia in Calgary. In July, she was thrilled and proud to be honored as the matriarch of the family at Mia’s wedding. In May, she was surrounded by her family and close friends to celebrate her 90 years. The family is grateful for those special family events in the final months of her life.
Joy raised her three children in Princeton BC. She delayed her professional ambitions to build a strong family foundation for her children. As the children became less dependent, she pursued a career in real estate and entered the industry in the Princeton area. In 1986, Joy relocated to Richmond BC, to care for her aging mother and continue her real estate career in the Lower Mainland. Joy moved to the Maple Ridge area in 2002, to be close to her daughter Michelle as she raised her family. She continued her real estate work in Maple Ridge. Joy loved the personal side of the business, easing the burden for her clients by creating fair and respectful relations. She was successfully employed in the real estate business for over 25 years, gaining respect and friendships along the way.
Joy’s values were shaped and influenced by her parents, John William (Bill) and Enid Yates and by her upbringing in Pakistan. Her childhood memories held a very special place in her heart, and she was always thrilled to reminisce about her parents, her early experiences and the privilege of her youth.
In 1955, she met the love of her life, Joseph Groenewegen in Karachi, Pakistan. They were married in 1956, starting an adventure together travelling and living abroad in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Holland. Joy was quick to learn the Dutch language and was adored and loved by her new in-laws. Joy and Joe emigrated to Canada in 1960, starting over to build a better future for their family. The extended family stands on the shoulders of Joy and Joe and we are forever grateful for their love, vision, hard work and sacrifice.
Joy leaves to mourn her sister Gill (Roy), sister in-law Hanneke, her children, Ken (Frances), Marc (Shannon) and Michelle (Chris), her grandchildren, Jason (Maria), Mia (Scott), David (Donna), Barry, Jordan, Tracy (Bob), Spencer and Julia, and great grandchildren, Kaili, Julie, Justin and Brett.
Joy was predeceased by her parents Bill and Enid, sister Betty, brother Kenneth, daughter-in-law Janis and grandson Lyle.
A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Joy to Katie's Place Animal Shelter at www.katiesplaceshelter.com.
We love you, Mom. We are forever grateful for your love and guidance. Rest in peace until we meet again.
By the way Mom, we knew you were feeding the raccoons at your patio door.
September 12th, 2024
Although we lived far away from my Aunt Joy, I admired her greatly. She was a strong, courageous and loving woman. I admired her loyalty to her loved ones, her determination to learn new things, how engaging she was, her intelligence and how she used 'big' words. When she spoke, it sounded like poetry. Andy and I had the pleasure of visiting her a few times in Maple Ridge and enjoyed those visits tremendously. She was definitely a great lady, and will be missed!
September 12th, 2024
I had the opportunity to get to know Joy a little better this summer. Her name certainly suited her. She was so energetic, interesting and joyful. My condolences to Ken and Frances and the family.
September 4th, 2024
I will miss my lovely aunty so much - a kind and loving soul with the calmest and most reassuring of demeanours. Despite being separated by an ocean, I am grateful for the many happy times we have been able to spend together over the years, both in the UK and Spain, plus Canada and a memorable trip to California. May you rest in peace.
August 31st, 2024
Sister in law, sister by heart, my dear Joy, I knew her for a 70 years.................I admired her guts facing the sad problems of life, I admired her care for others, her care for the animals around (maybe a bit too much feeding?) . I loved her voice on the phone and sure I will miss those long distance calls. May she rest in peace.............and I wish lots of strength and wisdom for all who will miss her.
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