Joanne Mary Desjardins Aiken - A Beautiful Life

Joanne Mary Desjardins Aiken passed away peacefully at 08:30 am on June 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family after a valiant struggle against cancer. Born on October 8, 1956, to Wilfred Desjardins and Sara Clara Rommel Desjardins, Joanne lived a life marked by deep compassion, community spirit, and unwavering love for her family

Joanne is survived by her sister, Irene, brothers Wayne and Tommy, her three sons: John Cowan (Kirstie) and their child Marcella; Wayne (Nadia) and children, Trinity, Maveric, and Declan; Donny (Tammy) and children Drake, Madelyn, Mark (Maleena), Jillian, Alexis; Joanne had one great grandchild Mavis.  She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews including her very special niece Debbie McEvoy and her children Brooke, Tanner and Dillon!  She was predeceased by her parents, her husband of 48 years, Robert "Bob" Aiken, sisters Ricki and Ellen.

A passionate advocate for her community, Joanne dedicated much of her life to Red Lake. She was known for her culinary skills, her love for children, and her extraordinary dedication to fostering.  In addition to raising her sons, Joanne opened her heart and home to over 180 children, including many in emergency situations and nearly 30 children on a long-term basis. One of her foster children expressed a sentiment shared by many: she was the mother they never had.

For almost three decades, Joanne was a devoted member and volunteer at the Canadian Legion. She contributed tirelessly, making countless sandwiches, organizing teas, bingos, yard sales, working hot dog stands, and various community events. As a Lions member, she took great pride in the impact the organization had on lives around the world. During a recent visit to Africa, she saw firsthand the global reach of the Lions' work, which brought her immense joy.

Joanne's dedication to the youth of Red Lake was evident in her more than two decades as a youth bowling program coordinator and through the many courses she taught, such as first aid and babysitting. Her work at the Red Lake Margaret Cochenour Hospital was another source of pride, where she tirelessly served the community. Joanne also brought meals, comfort, and companionship to Red Lake residents affected by cancer, offering a ray of hope in their darkest times.

Joanne's personal joys included her love for her dogs, a dislike for dessert, a love of seafood and escargot, and a passion for growing her own asparagus.

Her life was a testament to selflessness, resilience, and the profound impact one person can have on the lives of many. Her legacy of love, kindness, and community service will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of life will be held on July 6th at 12 pm noon n the Red Lake Royal Canadian Legion Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her name to the Red Lake Margaret Cochenour Memorial Hospitalhttps://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/11851