The genealogy community is mourning the loss of a talented and generous colleague, Joan Miller, after learning of death Friday, 4 January 2013 in Calgary, Canada.
Joan was keenly interested in applications for DNA in genealogical research, and as used her experience as a medical research technician at the University of Calgary to further her genealogy projects. She was also an accomplished speaker and active in several genealogical societies, as well as creator and blogger of the popular Luxegen Genealogy and Family History Blog.
2010 GeneaBloggers Welcome Bag assembly night
(from left) Denise, George, Thomas, Joan, Reg, Amy, Suzanne.
I had the pleasure of working with Joan for the 2010 Geneabloggers Welcome Bag project at the SCGS Jamboree. With Amy Coffin and Thomas MacEntee, we solicited and coordinated contributions to the bloggers’ swag bags and met up at my home in Pasadena to pack bags for the conference. Joan’s husband Reg joined in with Thomas’ friend George, my mom Suzanne, and the “committee” to make quick work of the task so we could move on to a more relaxing patio dinner. Joan joined Amy for an encore of the project in 2011 with Reg’s assistance once more.
Joan’s huge grin and ready Canadian wit made her a friend to all who met her. I was in awe of her skill in deftly encouraging her husband, Reg, to become a genealogist in his own right. Whether attending Jamboree, or Roots Tech where I met up with them in 2011, Joan and Reg were a team. And with their recent retirements, they were looking forward to conference-hopping in their new caravan motor home and family history searches throughout the continent.
Reg and Joan Miller, 2011 SCGS Jamboree
When she spoke of her home and family, Joan’s voice grew warm and proud. She was especially happy to see her adult son and daughter happy with family and careers, and she enjoyed a lighter side of home life with the family cat.
Joan will be greatly missed by all who knew her. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends.
The Obituary for Barbara (Joan) Miller is available at the Canada.com Leader-Post
