Dear editor:
Some time has passed since Joanne Young has left us, but her memory lingers.
As a hobby gardener, I always looked forward to those timely tips which were invariably sprinkled with humour.
I thank your paper for the endearing article on her life — it was very fitting (Sept. 18, “NOTL remembers gardener, teacher and columnist Joanne Young”).
And also kudos to the horticulture society for naming a prominent garden for her as well as establishing a scholarship in her name.
My wife and I were blessed to get to know her on a personal level as we had recently joined a Christian prayer group, which Joanne had long been a part of.
After one such meeting, when our car would not start, we discovered her saintly side.
My wife had called CAA, and it was Joanne who not only stayed out in the dark and drizzle with us while waiting for the tow truck, but also drove both my wife and me home in her little pickup truck.
Chatting and sharing during that ride, we quickly bonded and agreed to meet for coffee the following week.
Sadly, that coffee break never happened.
As sad as the news was for planet Earth, we had to accept the news that they needed another gardener in heaven.
Those of us who were in some way touched by Joanne will ever remember her and who knows? Someday (God’s place, God’s pace), we may have that coffee.
Joost Vandelinde
St. Davids
