Dr. Joan Louise Koch

Dr. Joan Louise Koch, age 71, passed away peacefully among friends on Dec. 7, 2025, at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, Ont.

She was born in Selkirk, Man., to the late Fritz Koch and Inga (Eichkorn) Koch. She is survived by her eldest brother, Charles (Cathy); and her nephews and niece, Jim (Vanessa), Daniel (Georgia) and Julianne (Alfredo); grandnephew, Simon; and grandniece, Elizabeth. She was predeceased by her dearly loved brother, Richard; sister, Frances (Jack); and special uncle, Herbert Eichkorn.

Joan grew up in rural Petersfield, Man., and attended Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive High School. After high school, she trained and worked as a medical laboratory technician, supporting herself throughout her university education. In 1984, she achieved her doctor of medicine degree through the University of Manitoba and decided to advance her medical training at St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto, where she lived with Ivanka, John and Lucy Blazevic, whom she cherished as her second family to this day. In 1986, Joan opened a family practice office in Mississauga, Ont., and became a staff physician at Credit Valley Hospital.

Joan was selfless and took a genuine interest in others. Her kindness, understanding and ability to listen were unmatched.

Over 27 years, she provided thoughtful, compassionate and exemplary care to her primary care patients. In 2013, she retired from family practice and opened a new chapter of her medical career by working exclusively as a surgical assistant and then surgical assist lead at Credit Valley Hospital.

Outside of medicine, Joan enjoyed the simpler life. She delighted in dinners with her friends and visiting her family in Manitoba. Her family recalls fond memories of playing cards and board games. Even during Joan's illness this past summer, she took the time to travel and watch her grandniece participate in a national dance competition. She marvelled at the energy. She loved her two precious cocker spaniels, Captain and Peek-a-boo, and developed a finer appreciation for the arts, including live musical theatre in Toronto as well as "The Pops" through the Toronto Symphany Orchestra.

Joan was selfless and took a genuine interest in others. Her kindness, understanding and ability to listen were unmatched. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues and patients. Joan will return to her family and childhood home of Petersfield. Flowers are welcome.