Jo-Anne (McConnell) Preszlak

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jo-Anne Preszlak (née McConnell), age 69, who passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in Red Deer, Alberta, with her husband and daughters by her side. Jo-Anne faced her battle with ALS with incredible courage, remaining a shining light of positivity and hope to the very end.

Born on April 26, 1956, in Lacombe, Alberta, to Iona and Jack McConnell, Jo-Anne spent the majority of her life in the community she loved. In 1976, she married the love of her life, David Preszlak, also in Lacombe.

In 1974, Jo-Anne moved to Red Deer to attend Reeves College and began her career at CKGY radio station as a “Happy Day Girl”, a role perfectly suited to her friendly and joyful nature. She returned to Lacombe in 1976 to begin a 35-year career at Pallister Cookson, where she became a familiar and welcoming face, especially during tax season. Always thinking of others, Jo-Anne kept a bowl of candy at reception to brighten long days. Even after retiring in 2010, she continued to help during busy seasons, always eager to serve the community she cared for so deeply.

Jo-Anne became a proud and devoted mother with the birth of her daughters, Jackie Dawn in 1979 and Kristy Lynn in 1981. She supported her girls wholeheartedly, particularly in their ringette years, always cheering from the stands or volunteering behind the scenes. Her home was a haven of warmth, love, and acceptance, where kitchen chats were a cherished tradition and everyone felt welcome.

A social spirit, Jo-Anne loved being part of a team. She enjoyed curling and bowling in leagues and charity events, played in a weekly ladies’ poker group, and volunteered at the Kozy Korner. Her kindness, loyalty, and cheerful presence made her a beloved friend to many.

Jo-Anne embraced life’s adventures. Whether camping close to home or traveling across the globe, she relished every opportunity to have new experiences. One of her most recent and memorable trips was traveling across Canada in a camper van with David and their dog Maddie.

Becoming a grandmother, affectionately known as “Yama”, was one of Jo-Anne’s greatest joys. Her grandchildren, Avery, Lauren, Zachary, and Cooper, adored her deeply. Her face lit up whenever they entered the room, and the memories they made together will be forever treasured.

Jo-Anne is lovingly remembered by her husband of 49 years, David; daughters Jackie (John) and Kristy (Steve); grandchildren Avery, Lauren, Zachary, and Cooper; sisters Carol (John) and Lori (Jason); brother Bill (Faith); brothers-in-law Pete (Laurie) and Terry; sister-in-law Chris and her nieces and nephews that were so dear to her. She was predeceased by her parents, Iona and Jack McConnell; her brother, Keith; and sister-in-law, Brenda.

A Celebration of Jo-Anne’s Life will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 1:00 pm at the Lacombe Memorial Centre. All who knew and loved Jo-Anne are welcome to attend.

A Recording of the Service will appear the evening after the Service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Society of Alberta or to a charity of your choice.

“She wasn’t just a light in the room, she was the spark in our hearts.”

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