It is with great sadness that the family of Joan Melissa Cottam (Lucas) announces her passing on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at La Verendrye General Hospital, at the age of 60.
Joan was born on July 10, 1966, at DuPage Hospital in Wheaton, Illinois, to Harold and Helen Lucas.
Joan leaves behind her beloved husband Harvey Cottam; her children Darrin Cottam (Jessie), Kaitlyn Byers (Clinton), and Scott Cottam; and her cherished grandchildren Jackson, Benjamin, Theo, Levi, Harrison, and Duke. She will also be lovingly remembered by her sister Claudia Schmidt; her brother Ken Lucas; extended family; and the many friends who were lucky enough to know her.
Joan was predeceased by her parents Harold and Helen Lucas; her sister Janet Lucas; her brother Harold Lucas; and her beloved son Tyler Cottam.
Joan was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend with a kind heart and a wonderful sense of humour. She had a way of making people laugh, making everyone feel welcome, and bringing family together. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and cared deeply for the people in her life.
Joan enjoyed the simple things that made life special. She loved fishing, baking, reading, crafting, and travelling, but nothing made her happier than spending time with her family. Her grandchildren held a very special place in her heart, and she treasured every moment she spent with them.
Joan’s warmth, generosity, laughter, and love will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. While her family and friends will miss having her here, they will forever carry the memories, stories, and laughter they shared with her.
In keeping with Joan’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. A small gathering to celebrate her life will be held at Norman Cottam Memorial Gardens in Nestor Falls at a later date.
As expressions of sympathy, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or Riverside Healthcare.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at La Verendrye General Hospital for the care, kindness, and support they provided to Joan and her family.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd.
