Joanne ("Jo" or "JJ") Koval (nee Gellately)

Joanne Koval passed away on March 25, 2024 at the age of 71 years due to cancer. She was predeceased by her loving husband, David; and by her parents Jack and Gert Gellately. Jo is lovingly remembered by her brothers, Bob, Ian, Neil and Pat Gellately; sisters, Dale Byrne, Jane Knight and Catherine (Kate) Scheers; as well as their families. She was a loving aunt and great aunt to her nieces, nephews and their kids.

Jo and David loved animals, and David was a veterinarian in Alberta, BC and the U.K. They had SO many dogs, cats, and horses over the years. Jo also worked for a time with the BCSPCA in Kelowna, BC, and as a vet tech at the University of Regina, Saskatchewan, where David was training as a veterinarian. JJ and David helped countless animals throughout their lives. We imagine all their animals now running to greet her in heaven. JJ and David loved trail riding with their horses in the beautiful foothills of Alberta, with their dear friends, Leslie Timmins and Larry Thomas. That was truly the best time of their lives.

JJ and David lived for several years in Beverly, England. They embraced the English way of life, gardening for Jo, and pubs for David.

After David’s passing in Enderby, BC in 2006, JJ moved to Cochrane, Alberta, to be closer to her family. She loved the small town of Cochrane, and had many friends there. In the last few years, JJ moved to Calgary.

Jo was a voracious reader – she was always nose deep into her favourite historical fiction books, especially the Outlander series. She attended York University and studied, among other things, Russian Literature. She loved doing crosswords, like her father Jack – in pen. Jo loved all kinds of music, especially country music. She enjoyed gardening and had lovely gardens in her homes over several continents.

JJ was one of the kindest and most generous people on the planet. This wonderful redheaded gal would give you the shirt off her back, and was fiercely protective of her family. She will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Jo’s life will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local SPCA in her honour.

Rest now, sweet Jo, in David’s loving arms, at Trail’s End. Happy Trails!