Joan Florence (Barran) O'Brien

Joan Florence O'Brien (nee Barran) passed away peacefully in Sechelt, surrounded with much love by her family and close friends. Joan was just a couple of weeks shy of her 91st birthday. She was a kind, empathetic, and compassionate woman.

She is survived by her 2 much loved sons, Rob (Karen) and Mark (Sarah), and her adored 3 grandchildren, Sara, Colin, and Blake.

Joan was born in New Westminster in 1934 to Gladys and Arthur Barran. She spent her early years in South Burnaby until the end of the 2nd World War, except for 1 year in Victoria when her father was stationed in the RCAF. At the end of WW2, the family moved to Vancouver.

After high school, Joan took a psychiatric nursing course and worked with mentally challenged children. Joan also had an 8 month job on a freighter in the Caribbean.

Joan settled in Vancouver and married Orest Dal Santo in 1960. They had 2 wonderful sons, Rob and Mark. Joan also has 3 grandchildren, Sara, Colin, and Blake who were her greatest joy. Joan loved having them come stay with her in Sechelt, where she would spoil them with home baked pies and fun games of cards.

Joan worked in social services from the mid 1970's, initially in Vancouver and then in Sechelt from the 1980's until she retired. Joan enjoyed doing community work on the Sunshine Coast after retirement. She married her 2nd husband, Jim O'Brien in 1985. They moved together to Sechelt when Jim retired from the CBC.

Joan also had a great fondness for her nephew, David, and 2 nieces, Colleen and Trish, all of whom lived with Joan and Orest for a time.

Joan treasured her life long friendships. Her passions were traveling, reading, and cooking. She was an avid reader and had a strong and long-lasting connection with her book club friends of 30 years. She has traveled to many countries, including Africa, Russia, Italy, and the Middle East.

Joan loved her family and friends. Her spirit lives on in those she loved and those who loved her. She will be deeply missed and endlessly loved, especially by Rob, Mark, Sara, Colin, and Blake.

In lieu of flowers, Joan asked if you would donate to “Sunshine Coast Community Services Society’s Building Together” project, which is creating affordable homes for women and children alongside vital community programs.

Donations can be made online at www.sccss.ca or by calling 604-885-5881. Please select Building Together from the Donate to list and tick the Dedicate this gift option.