Joan E. Prowse

Joan Elizabeth Prowse (nee Pocock) died peacefully in her sleep on February 2, 2026, at the age of 85.

Joan is survived by her beloved husband and best friend Wayne, together from the age of 15, married for 62 years.

Loving mother of Chris (Fiona), treasured Nan of Naomi, Will, and Sam. Predeceased by her son Mark. Cherished big sister of Don (Donna), and much loved aunt to her many nieces and nephews.

Joan was born and grew up in Toronto, Ontario, and moved with her young family to Fergus in 1974, where she and Wayne raised their boys and their beautiful German Shepard dogs, and restored the old St. Andrew’s manse.

Joan worked for 25 years managing the St. George Family Health Unit in Fergus, engaging in her kind and compassionate manner to support hundreds of families.

A naturalist and gardener, she designed and established an award-winning garden, inspired by cycling and garden tours of England. Her artistic talents were also expressed through her work with clay, watercolour, fabric, carving, stained glass and Halloween costumes.   

A lifelong swimmer, Joan competed in local and provincial masters competitions, and in the 1985 World Master Games. Along with her passion for art, Joan also enjoyed back-country canoeing and camping, reading, and volunteering at the University of Guelph Arboretum.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Sympathy may be expressed through a donation to The Guelph Humane Society or the University of Guelph Arboretum.

Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

A tree will be planted in memory of Joan E. Prowse in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.