With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Joanne Vitzthum in Ottawa on April 19, surrounded by friends and family.
Known as “JoBell” to her many friends, Joanne was always thinking of others: She was an inspirational teacher, a devoted mother to Beatrice and Genevieve, and a loving wife to Gian. Outgoing by nature, Joanne always lived her life to the fullest—she loved to laugh and her joyful personality filled a room.
Born to Ronald Bell and Jane Shea, Joanne grew up in Nova Scotia alongside her siblings David and Krista; they all moved to Ajax, Ontario when Joanne was a teenager. Graduating from Trent University, her life path was clear: helping those in need. Having learned American Sign Language, Joanne advocated for the deaf community in Peterborough and, after coming to Ottawa, began working at Ottawa Valley Autistic Homes serving clients with high needs in a group home setting. There she made many friends and life-lasting bonds.
Joanne turned this passion for serving others to an educational setting working first as an Educational Assistant and then returning as a certified teacher to the Autism Program of Featherston Drive Public School. She worked mainly in the kindergarten class, instrumental in helping those that did not have a voice learn to communicate. She changed the lives of her many pupils and their families not only through her kindness and compassion, but also through her professionalism. Joanne treated every single person she encountered in her life with dignity and respect, fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion. She leaves a remarkable legacy in the autism community.
Having spent a career advocating on behalf of others, Joanne finally had to fight for herself: Refusing to let her spirit be diminished by an incurable cancer diagnosis in 2012, Joanne seemed to bend time through a sheer force of will. She demonstrated an indefatigable positivity as she railed against her disease and its ongoing treatments for nearly a decade, amazing everyone; she was extraordinary for her resilience. Her family and large network of friends were a constant source of strength and happiness for her—especially her two young daughters, whom she cherished. Joanne and her family would like to particularly thank Drs. Fitzgibbon and Goel at the Ottawa Hospital, and Heather Booth, from Bayshore, for their years of tireless support.
A small private family ceremony will be held at Beechwood Cemetery on April 28th. In lieu of flowers, a donation in her name to Autism Ontario or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.
Joanne’s most profound wish was that people celebrate her life joyfully, not mourn her passing, and she always loved a good party. Please join us Thursday May 19th for a drop-in event between 4-10pm at the One Up Cocktail Pub (above the Royal Oak on Beechwood Ave) where light refreshments will be served or food can be ordered from a menu. Attendees are asked to wear masks, party hats, and dancing shoes!
Digital Guestbook
Cindy Dubue
Monica Reinvall
JoBell's light touched so many people. She exuded an unmatched spirit of hope, positivity, and optimism. I am forever blessed to have been one of your friends, JoBell ?. Love you always and forever. To Gian, Bea, Genna and family....deepest condolences from Ken and I. Sending you strength and love.
Linda McCrorie
Krista, I am so sorry for the loss of your sister. Sending condolences to your entire family as well as her husband and children. Cherish the memories
Melanie Coffey
My sincerest condolences to Gian, Beatrice & Genna as well as everyone else who will miss this positivity-firecracker in their lives. She made a huge impression on many, and I will certainly cherish the memories we shared together from Featherston, to Mexi’s patio dates, to her famous white Sangria in the backyard 22+ years ago. I will raise a glass from abroad when you are all together, and wish you peace in your memories of that famous Jobell laughter. Much love xx
Jenn Kerr
Jobell you were one of my first friends when I moved to Ottawa in 1996. We shared so many good times. You were always full of life, made friends so easily, such a bright light. You could be the life of a party or give the best neck massage to a friend in need. You were selfless.
You offered words of encouragement to those who needed it, a helping hand to all.
Never a mean word came from your mouth.
You radiated positivity.
Jobell you were and will always be one of a kind. I will leave you to your dreams. Love you, Jenn
Viola Caissy
Sincere Condolences to family and friends
JoBell was a sunshine light on the staff at Featherstone. May she rest in Peace.
Roddy Douglas
I'll miss you, JoBell. Jo loved life tot he fullest, and made sure others around her were not only okay, but could feel the love of life that she felt. Her warm sense of humour and courage will be remembered by me forever. I'll miss you, JoBell.
Diane Richard
Sincere condoleances to the family and friends! What will always remain in my heart is Jobell's beautiful smile and cheerfull disposition as a co-worker at Featherston. Thoughts and prayers are with all.of you and with her beautiful spirit. Blessings
Sonya
I am heartbroken to hear about the passing of Joanne. We lived together when at university and remained friends when living in Oshawa/Whitby and Ottawa. Beautiful, creative, compassionate and spirited. When I saw this picture.... I could swear it was one from the Trent days. It truly epitomizes the wonderful person I knew. My condolences to all she leaves behind. Sending the biggest e-hugs your way.
Norah Carmichael
Krista,
Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. You were and are a pillar of strength for Joanne and her family. She was fortunate to have a sister who would do anything for her and her family.
My condolences,
Norah
My sincere condolences to Jo’s family, particularly Gian, Bea and Genna. I can’t imagine your sorrow, her presence on this earth will be missed by everyone who knew her. I believe she touched more lives in a loving, positive way, far more than she ever knew. I am so glad I had the opportunity to call her friend for so many years. My heart is breaking with the loss of this wonderful woman, so fortunate to have decades of memories to ease my pain. If you know Jobell you have laughed hard and often. Thanks for the many good times Jo. Love you always and forever. ❤️?❤️