February 1, 1943 – September 14, 2026
On September 14, 2026, Jo passed away at age 83 after a nine-week illness, caused by a glioblastoma which she endured with courage, strength, humility and humour.
She is survived by her sister Donnie and nephew Ken (Louise); her son Richard (Linda); daughter Jenny (Rick) Lloyd; grandchildren Hayley (Justin), Meagan (Stefan), and Nick (Brielle); and great-grandchildren Lexi, Rylee, James, Lorelai, and Jax. She was predeceased by her parents, Ken and Jessie (Vancise) Dale; her brother-in-law Warren; her nephew John; and her best friend Linda.
Mom was born in Saskatoon and grew up in Fort Garry, graduating from Vincent Massey. As a teenager, she competed in equestrian events and earned many ribbons which are now proudly displayed in her granddaughter Hayley’s museum.
Never wanting to fail a test, her determination, competitiveness and stubbornness made sure she had many more wins in life to count than losses.
Some of her early wins include achieving a teacher’s certificate at Teachers College after high school. She began teaching in the mid-sixties in Oakville and Portage la Prairie.
After marrying and starting a family in 1968, she took a break from teaching to support our dad as he continued his academic career, which took the family back and forth between Portage la Prairie and Vancouver in the early 1970’s. After settling in Fort Richmond with two children Mom returned to teaching at Dalhousie School in 1974 until retirement in 2003.
In 1980, she became our family’s sole earner. Drawing on her courage and determination, she enrolled in the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba, earned her degree, and received a raise that allowed her to support all our pursuits, including sports and academics.
Establishing herself in the Fort Richmond community, the wins stacked up through the friendships she made. She made friends at work, in the neighbourhood, at university, the RKCC community centre and in her retirement as a volunteer at The Victoria Hospital, and through the various Bridge groups she played and competed in.
Living and teaching in the same community meant her work friends included students, parents, and colleagues that she formed lifelong relationships with. The special ones include Linda’s children Justin and Brandi, book club (made up of retired Dalhousie teachers), and many students who begin a quip with, “without Mrs. Bembridge I wouldn’t know…”
Her colleagues are a special group. They met in the early 70’s and remained deeply connected through her final days. She especially cherished visits with Donna, Allie, Freddie, Sandy and Judy as well as the many others. She was humbled by the many gifts, cards and flowers sent to her, especially the quilt sent on behalf or her former colleagues.
Mom built strong relationships with her neighbours and after work friends, always hosting or attending parties and often being the life of them. There were many enjoyable times with the Andersons, Traftons, Raeburns, Juras’, Mackeys, Hills, and the Maceys. After a move to Country Knoll in the early 90’s she formed deep friendships with neighbours, specifically Doug, Gwen and Pete.
While at University, even though an older student, Mom fit in sharing notes and participating in class. She was very proud to wear the shirt that read “Grad 1981” even though and especially that she was 38!
While attending University and working full time as a teacher she didn’t think her plate was full enough, so she volunteered as an assistant coach, manager and secretary of the RKCC making friends within the parent groups of that era.
In retirement she built friendships with fellow volunteers and administration at The Victoria Hospital, working in the Guild and as a Volunteer in the gift shop. When mom became ill, her friends from the gift shop made a steady trek up to the fifth floor making sure she had everything she needed during her stay. She especially enjoyed visits from Robyn, Debbie, Roine; and close behind the human visitors were the dogs Luca and Chloe. Mom worked her last shift just 10 days before she was admitted to hospital because of her illness. During her stay she was awarded with a distinguished service award for 20 years of volunteer work.
Mom played in several Bridge leagues and games, often invited to play outside her usual group to fill a vacancy, a testament to her spirit and the friendship she offered. She played many games with Pat, Margaret, and Diane, including one just five weeks before her passing-and she won!
Mom was an avid sports fan. In summer, her TV was always tuned to the Blue Jays or the Blue Bombers; in winter it was tuned to The Jets. Mom had the opportunity to travel, on more than one occasion, to attend most major league sports events, including NHL, NFL, NBA and MLB. She was the most informed armchair coach, referee and GM that any team she cheered for could want!
Grandkids started showing up in 1993, again 1994 and 1997. She loved being Grandma and made sure she had an individual bond with each of them. She was proud to be a Great Grandma too and cherished the pictures that kept her in step with their lives.
Above all our mom was funny! There wasn’t much she wouldn’t say, and her timing was impeccable. Shortly after learning of her illness, she even made the doctor who delivered the news laugh. She could stand confidently in any group and deliver a one-liner that drew laughter and attention. She knew her audience, and depending on who’s company she was in, there were quips that were better kept than repeated.
As funny as she was, she was also sincere. You could count on our mom whether you were a colleague, friend, fellow volunteer or one of us kids, or one of our friends. What she said was what she meant, and it was always in support of what you were facing.
Early in her illness, she stated that she had more check marks in the win column than the loss column. This was never more evident than in the dedication shown by Mom’s friends. She counted those friendships among her wins, and they were many, long-lasting, deep and cherished. In her last days, when communication was still possible though brief, she was able to express gratitude.
The family wishes to thank the many Doctors, Nurses, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, and Aides at the Victoria Hospital; the Home Care Nurses including Jennifer and her Team; and special gratitude to the Home Care Aides who enabled her to live at home for three weeks between hospital stays, especially Aman, BK, Henry, and Franklin; and the entire Team at Riverview Health Centre especially Colleen, Sabrina and Dr. Josh.
In keeping with her wishes a party will be held to celebrate her at a later date.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Volunteer Guild of the Victoria Hospital or Riverview Health Centre Foundation.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Jo’s memorial page using the comment field below.