Obituary of Jo-Ann McKenna

McKENNA, Jo-Ann (Mary), nee McInnis It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved JoAnn on the evening of January 28th, who, after many years of medical challenges passed away peacefully in her 77th year. She was loved and will be greatly missed by her large extended family. Cherished wife of John for almost 50 years. Loving mother of Michael and his wife Jennifer. Proud Grammy of Emme and Chloe. Beloved sister of Allan (Erlene), Bryan (Judy), Barbara, Richard (Janet), Robert (Elizabeth), Patricia (Richard), Lynn (Ian), Dennis (Kathy), Frank (Karen) . Special Aunt Jo-Jo of Kathy, Linda, Gary, Mark, Chris, Sean, Dawn, Amanda, Lindsay, Meghan, Brent, Cameron, Dean, Ryan, Liam, Andrew, Lee, Patrick, Dylan, Matthew, Meredith and Karly. Predeceased by her sister Donna and by her brother Brenton. JoAnn had a challenging and rewarding career. She was ahead of her time in that she held management positions during the 1960's in a large drug and pharmaceuticals company (Drug Trading Company in Toronto) and The Niagara Credit Union at a time when women could not normally aspire to such positions. In her more recent years she was an invaluable and passionate resource and leader within the local Wellspring Organization. She gave generously of her time and served several terms as board chair. A special thank you to the entire staff at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre and McMaster/Hamilton General, who were like family, for all their care and support that was given to Jo-Ann and her family. In accordance with Jo-Ann's wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 585 Carlton Street on Tuesday, February 2, 2016 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Vigil prayers will be held in the funeral home at 3 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Alfred's Roman Catholic Church, 272 Vine Street on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 11 a.m. In memory of Jo-Ann, memorial donations may be given to Wellspring Niagara or to the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre.