Joyce Karen Bristow
Joyce Karen Bristow passed away peacefully at the Craik & District Health Centre on July 22, 2026, at the age of 92. She was born in Mankota, Saskatchewan on June 4, 1934, to Alfred and Carrie Jensen, both of whom immigrated to Canada from Norway in the early part of the 20th century. Joyce attended elementary school in Mankota, Peacock High School in Moose Jaw, and Central Collegiate Institute in Regina. She graduated from the Regina Grey Nuns Hospital School of Nursing in 1955 followed by a nursing career at Swift Current Hospital, Kincaid Hospital, Mankota Hospital, Cupar Hospital, University Hospital in Saskatoon, Moose Jaw Union Hospital and St. Anthony’s home. Joyce met Doug Bristow in 1960, and they were married on June 19, 1961. While living in Kincaid in the 1960s, son Murray and daughter Carolyn were born. Doug and Joyce moved to Moose Jaw in 1969 where Doug taught school and Joyce nursed. In 1975 they started farming with Doug’s brother Earl; their farming career lasted until they retired in 2000. The importance of faith to Joyce and Doug manifest in their involvement in their church, the Gideon organization, and Joyce’s contributions to Christian Women’s Club and Mom-to-Mom. Joyce loved being with people and meeting new people. Traditions, politeness, and family were always held in high regard, and she was generous in her support of organizations that helped people who were in need. Early in life, Joyce took many trips with her family, often to the Canadian Rockies. Later in life, Joyce and Doug enjoyed camping trips with their travel trailer, often with Robin’s parents, Wilf and Loyn Nornberg. As well, they made many trips to Louisville to spend time with Carolyn and Jeff. Joyce was predeceased by her husband Doug; her brother Doug Jensen and his wife Gertrude Jensen; nephew Roger Jensen; brothers-in-law Earl Bristow and Les Bristow; and sister-in-law Lorna Butlin and her husband Bruce Butlin. Joyce is survived by her son Murray (Robin) Bristow of Regina; daughter, Carolyn (Jeff) Talley of Louisville, KY; nephew Blair (Gloria) Jensen of Eagle Hill, AB; niece Anita Towns of James River, AB; nephew Donald (Barb) Butlin of Moose Jaw; as well as grand- and great-grand-nieces and nephews. The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane, Moose Jaw, with pastor Steve Atkins officiating. For friends and family who are unable to attend you are invited to view the service virtually by going to www.moosejawfuneralhome.com/webcast. There will be a lunch after the service followed by interment at Sunset Cemetery. Donations in memory of Joyce may be made to ShareWord Global (formerly The Gideons), P.O. Box 3619 Stn Main, Guelph, ON N1H 7A2, or Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada 1200-2300 Yonge St, Box 2414 Toronto, ON M4P 1E4. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane; Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Joyce was a bridesmaid for my mother, Pat Wells (married to Adrian Paton) in Gravelbourg in the 50s. They had attended nursing school together. I have photos of her as a bridesmaid. My older brothers can recall visiting Joyce in Kincaid.
Our mom died 45 years ago but would have been pleased that an old friend lived such a long and meaningful life. My condolences on your loss.
We loved Joyce. Travis and I got to know her later in her life, and she became a great friend. I would sip many Tim Hortons Iced Cappuccinos with her at Mac the Moose, and tea in her cozy living room. She was always so incredibly sweet, thoughtful and interesting. We had great conversations about our faith in Jesus. See you again some day, my friend!!
Dear Murray and Carolyn; I remember you both from Palliser Heights and I worked with your Mom for a while.She was a lovely caring lady and was great with the patients.Take comfort in all your precious memories and she’ll always be with you, take care of yourself and each other.