MRS. JOAN McPHERSON of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Dr. Douglas McPherson, passed away at the Fairmont Extendicare on Sunday, February 20, 2011 at the age of 88 years.

Joan was born in Islay, Alberta on August 12, 1922, the second daughter of Graham and Marjorie Gardiner. She was raised on the family farm near Hazeldine, Alberta. In 1944 she graduated as a registered nurse from the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton. While working there, she met her future husband Douglas McPherson. They were married October 25, 1947. In 1948 Joan and Doug moved to Magrath, Alberta, where Doug opened his medical practice. Joan was his initial office nurse. In 1950 they moved to Lethbridge, where they raised their family and Joan has resided there since.

Joan is survived by her children Alan (Lorna), Ian (Debra), Sandra and David. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Brian McPherson, Michelle (Peter) Delaney, Robert McPherson (Emily) and Lindsay McPherson (fiancé Brett) and three great grandchildren; Jillian and Austin Delaney and Bryan McPherson. She is also survived by two sisters, Jean Fiddler of Vancouver and Betty-Lou Sloan of Edmonton. Joan was predeceased by her husband Douglas and her sister Molly MacLean.

Joan was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She had a strong faith and was active in her church. She especially enjoyed spending time at the family cabin at Wasa Lake, BC. She lived a long life and will be dearly missed.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4th Street South, Lethbridge, with Dr. Bruce Martin, officiating.

A private family inurnment will be held at Mountain View Cemetery.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Joan's memory may be made to the St. Michael's Health Centre Foundation, 1400-9th Ave. S., Lethbridge, AB, T1J 4V5.