Joan Margaret Plant (née Ulph)

Joan Margaret Plant (née Ulph) of Calgary, Alberta, passed away peacefully at the age of 74 following a brief illness. 

Joan’s life revolved around her family, including her husband and three daughters, her sister and brothers, and a network of extended family, both blood and chosen. She had a deep interest in genealogy and family history, sharing family stories and often speaking fondly of the Spencer Family Reunions she attended throughout her life. At the time of her death, Joan was working on organizing family correspondence and stories for a future publication. 

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Joan will be remembered for being an incredible listener, always lending an ear when needed and offering guidance and reassurance without judgement. She was the critical part of our family communications network, keeping us connected across cities and continents. Her loss will be felt especially acutely by those who relied on her updates and phone calls.

Joan was unendingly generous and kind, with an outstanding ability to give just the right gift at just the right time. Christmases organized by Joan were always special, with family, food, decorations, and wonderful presents. In her later years, Joan shared with her grandchildren the same kind of Christmas memories she created for her own daughters. She was also exceptionally generous beyond the holiday season, frequently opening her home to her family and friends whenever needed, and often for long periods of time. 

Joan was also very skilled at making things — almond pudding and delicious cookies, sweaters and pillowcases, family anthologies and other thoughtful projects. In recent years, improvements in her health had given her the energy to complete some of her more ambitious projects, including ones started more than 30 years ago.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, Tom and Irene Ulph, and her son, James Spencer Plant. She is survived by her loving husband of 49 years, James (Jim) Plant, and her three daughters, Jennifer (Geoffrey) Kuchera, Johanna (Arlen) Plant Donnelly, and Jessica Plant. She will be greatly missed by her grandchildren, Amelia and John Kuchera, and Clara and Rose Donnelly. She is also survived by her sister, Ann Stapley, and two brothers, Thomas (Laura) Ulph and Timothy (Vickie) Ulph.

Nothing would please Joan more than to know that even in her absence, she has brought us together. Please join us on Friday, September 19 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Triwood Community Association to celebrate Joan’s life. There will be a brief remembrance ceremony starting at 2 pm. We will honour her memory by sharing stories and strengthening our connections.

In Joan’s memory, we ask that you consider donating to a charity of your choice, or simply do something that Joan would do — pick up the phone and call a friend, mail someone a birthday card, or hug your family and friends extra tight. 

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joan Margaret Plant (née Ulph), please visit our Tree Store.