Joan Elizabeth Sanderson-Bannerman, devoted mother, beloved wife, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the age of 86. She leaves behind the love of her life, husband of 54 years, Robert Smith Bannerman, known as Bob.
Known as one of the Sanderson identical twins, Joan was the treasured daughter of Austin and Grace Sanderson. With her twin sister Joyce Dow, she dazzled on the modeling scene under the guidance of the Estelle Wideman Modeling Agency, giving them opportunity to appear on Front Page Challenge, Cross Canada Hit Parade, and Wayne & Schuster. She attended Branksome Hall in Toronto and later pursued her education at Toronto Teacher's College. Joan dedicated her career to the Scarborough Board of Education, specializing in speech correction. Her athletic abilities shone during her years at Branksome, where she earned the All-Around Athlete Award multiple times.
Throughout her life, Joan was not only a passionate athlete—excelling in skiing, tennis, and golf—but she was also deeply committed to her community. She spent countless hours volunteering and raising funds for various foundations and schools, reflecting her generous spirit and dedication to helping others. Joan eagerly embraced opportunities to travel across Canada and the USA, participating in various running races including 5K, 10K, 15K, and half marathons, where her competitive nature truly flourished.
As a devoted mother, Joan took immense pride in raising her two wonderful children: her son, Rob Bannerman, who is married to Michelle Matchinski-Bannerman, and her daughter, Christina Bannerman-Nickerson, who is married to Rob Nickerson. Joan's heart swelled with joy as she doted on her grandchildren, Kelby Bannerman, Bryce Bannerman, and Austin Nickerson. She also leaves behind her identical twin sister, Joyce, and her children, Todd Dow and Tara Dow-Rein, as well as her beloved great-nieces and nephews: Samantha, Casey, Davis, Carly, Cassidy and Carson.
In accordance with Joan's wishes, a private service will be held at her resting place. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to support the Southlake Health Foundation in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada.
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Southlake Health Foundation
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