Joan Sarell

December 25, 1934 – July 26, 2014

Joan Sarell (née Roberts) was born in a house on the shores of Tuc-el-Nuit Lake in
Oliver on Christmas Day in 1934. She was nicknamed ‘Birdie’ by her mother, because of her joy and her love of song. Her parents, Everal and Florence, had settled there a few
years earlier to eventually establish an orchard.

Her older brother Danny and younger brother Charlie still live in the area. During school she achieved academic awards and was voted as Okana-Quen Queen in 1953. She became Chairperson for the Oliver Teen Town. She then sought a career as a medical laboratory technician before marrying in 1959. She then gave birth to three children, Dean, Michael and Janice and has enjoyed her grandchildren Elyse, Matthew and Savanna.

Her contributions to the community did not go unnoticed and she and her husband Terry were awarded Good Citizens of the Year in 1975. During the child rearing years she dabbled in many interests but finally purchased the Southwinds Motor Inn in 1979.

It is probably during these last decades of operating the business and providing kind and caring training for staff, that she will be remembered by many. Joan was an iconic personality in Oliver and will forever be remembered in the community’s history.
Her granddaughter, Savanna, has summed up her feelings regarding Joan in her
scrapbook:
“She was such an inspiration throughout her life. My Grandma and my Grandpa were
involved in the cancer society, historical society, the hospital society and the Rotary
student exchange program. My Grandma took in many unfortunate people into her home.
They came as strangers but left feeling part of the family. A big part of my Grandma’s life
was owning the Southwind Inn. She took on a big leadership role operating the
hotel and being part of many events in the community. She didn’t just own the hotel, she
trained and educated many different people in the hospitality industry. I really hope that I
can take after some of the traits my Grandma possessed. She showed absolute
unselfishness, outgoing love, leadership, and everyday deeds of goodwill.”

There will a Celebration of Joan’s life on Sunday, August 3rd at 3pm at Joan’s homestead
(184 Gallagher Lake Road). Please feel free to bring bathing suits and lawn chairs.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com
Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos.