Laureen,

So sorry to hear (belatedly) of Jeff's sudden and tragic death.

Aside from occasionally crossing paths at Wintergreen, I will remember him as one of Tess's Western Canada High School science teachers who was married to her favourite Bishop Pinkham Junior High School Language Arts teacher.

Tess joins me in offering deepest condolences to you and your boys.

Jean Edmonson

My sincere condolences. A friend of mine asked me if I knew Jeff today. “ Of course! I played with him in the city amateur at Carstairs when he made a hole-in-one on number two. “

Jeff had already walked off the green and I said to him:” Let’s get back out there and take a good picture.” For a minute he didn’t want to because he didn’t want to hold up play. I grabbed his arm and pulled him back out on the green and we took the above picture. I texted it to him that night. He called me and he thanked me, saying that it was one of his favourite pictures, and he would likely frame it.

Seeing it on the obituary hit me pretty hard. Made me sad yet somehow softly smile at the same time…

Life is too short. It was a pleasure to know Jeff. He was well liked amongst his golf piers. I am honoured that I was able to share that memory with him.

Dan Lambert

My most sincere condolences to Laureen and all members of Jeff's family, as well as his many friends. His enthusiasm, outreach, and positive contributions to all he did were remarkable.

Laureen, Brandon and Cameron

I am sending you huge “Mrs. Bailey” hugs. Jeff got my interest in Smart boards in kindergarten started when Brandon was in my K class. He really helped get me my first board by making a presentation to parent council about how they could enhance early learning. He was a power to be admired in his zeal for education. I believe many who were touched by Jeff’s life would have stories about his power to lead.

Jo-Ann Bailey

To Jeff's Family & Friends! I was heartbroken & filled with grief when I found out about Jeff's passing. To lose someone so young, vibrant, full of life & filled with untapped potential is truly a loss to the world. I didn't know Jeff well, but had worked in a support capacity at the CBE with him over the years & always remember his bright shining spirit, his warm welcoming smile as well as his unbridled passion for the role he was filling at the time & the advocacy for people he was responsible for. He was always one of the people I enjoyed working with & I always tried to an extra mile for him as he was always the one that would go the 2 extra for someone else. Although it may not seem much, I can only offer my deepest, most sincere condolences, my thoughts & prayers for all of you in your time of loss. While dealing with my own grief after having lost someone dear to me recently; I remember hearing or reading the following & it helped me in coping at the time; "They say that time heals all wounds but I don't think that's true. You only learn to live with the scars." May God comfort you & heal your pain, sadness & grief in the coming days & may He wipe every tear from your eyes as try to fill the empty hole in your hearts & lives.

Like everyone, I was shocked to hear of Jeff’s unexpected and tragic departure. I don’t recall my first interaction with Jeff, but our careers started around the same time and our leadership journeys evolved at the same space. Whenever we crossed paths, his smile was infectious, our conversations were always positive, casual, and personal. I always left our conversations feeling lighter. His impact was wide and positive. I aspire to follow his lead. I wish Laureen and family the deepest of condolences.

Laureen, I offer my sincerest condolences to you and your family on the passing of Jeff. He made such a positive impact on so many people and hopefully many fond memories give you comfort during this difficult time. I watched the service yesterday and found the stories and anecdotes so inspiring and filled with the joy and energy that Jeff gave to everyone and everything. May you find healing and strength as you take your own time in the grieving process. Thinking of you as you journey forward. Marsha Levy, your former CBE downtown colleague.

I was heartbroken for Mr.lailey’s sudden passing , I am truly sorry for his family and friends, I had the pleasure of working with Mr.lailey at Buchanan school . He was kind , respectful, patient, I am sending my deepest condolences to his family and friends .

I'm very sorry to hear this news. Jeff was a great mentor for me when I was young and he be came a friend many years later. Jeff taught me Computer Science at Annie Gale Junior High back in 1997. We instantly bonded and he quickly became one of my favorite teachers.

Here we are 26 years later and I would play Beer League hockey against him in Chestermere. He was a heck of a hockey player and we loved to compete against each other on the ice, often with a quick little chirp or pat on the shin pads back and forth with a laugh. Following the game, we would always like to catch up for a few minutes at center ice. He would often invite me out for a skate with some of his other teams and we'd talk about how we needed to hook up for a golf game in the summer. He was such a great guy and he will surely be missed.

My sincere condolences to the family.

My heart has been heavy with sorrow for you, my treasured friend and colleague Laureen, and your sons. I am praying that Mother God will wrap you three in arms of love and comfort you in this sad time and that She will walk with you on the long journey to healing. The Celebration of Jeff's Life was a wonderful tribute to the many ways he enriched the lives of others - family, friends, community, students and teachers. I especially appreciated Lori Pritchard's remembrances of Jeff's dedication to allyship and reconciliation with Indigenous people - something I hadn't known about him. Truly, Jeff's life was a blessing and the powerful influence he had on others will endure. With Mr. Eagle Tail, who performed the beautiful honour song for Jeff, I believe there will be a special place in Heaven reserved for Jeff. I'm sending a virtual hug across the net to you. Darlene Montgomery (I wanted to be there in person today, but I have come down with a cold and I don't want to spread it around.)

As I listened to every word that was spoken today from my home east of Brandon, Manitoba; it was so evident that the free spirited young teacher from Waskada had not changed at all. I truly believe Jeff packed at least 100 years of fun and adventure into 51 years of life, just as Toon mentioned in her speech. I look forward to talking to you Laureen, when you need an old friend to talk to...I will be there for you. Loads of love and a big bear hug to you. I am honoured to be part of this day from afar. Loads and loads of love, Michelle Franklin (Adams from our Antler River School Days)

I’m a parent and teacher and Jeff was the number 1 champion for my child. My kiddo has big challenges and this past year and a half Jeff was committed to building a relationship with my child and making adaptations and problem solving with me over many hours. He played Pokemon with my child almost every day last year. He raided his own kids Pokemon stash and would bring in cards to excite and challenge and stay competitive with my child. Above and beyond does not begin to describe what he has done for our family. We talked about Mr. Lailey almost every school day. As a parent, I felt heard and understood and like a team mate. I would sing his praises to anyone who would listen expressing just how lucky we felt to have such an amazing administrator running the school.

He was such a big part of our lives for this short time and after watching the funeral I know he was this for countless others.

I am so sorry for your loss. Sending healing and strength as you work through the difficult journey of grief.

In working with Jeff we often were faced with some of the more challenging aspects and not so "fun" parts of our jobs. Jeff showed up every time with compassion and integrity. He put students first but also had space to put his staff first. I only worked with him for a short time but his attitude and leadership style was always a pleasure to work with. Sincere condolences.

I am truly sorry to hear about the passing of Jeff. Please accept my deepest condolences for his loss. Losing someone we care about is never easy, and I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.

Jeff was a remarkable person who touched the lives of those around him in meaningful ways. His kindness, warmth, and the positive impact he made on others will be remembered and cherished by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Jeff was a wonderful support system and mentor when I worked with him at Dover. His intelligence and passion for teaching was truly admirable. I have so many wonderful memories of him - he will not be forgotten.

May the memories of Jeff bring you solace, and may you find strength in the love and support of those around you. Wishing you peace and comfort as you navigate through this difficult time.

Henriette Garcia and Family

We have known Jeffrey from the time he was an impish little boy until he recently passed. Our family looked forward to his visits every summer at Victoria Beach. We watched him grow into an incredible, athletic and caring young man married to a wonderful woman and raising two children that he adored.

There are no words to express how we will miss his handsome and ever smiling face.

Our thoughts are with you Laureen, Branden and Cameron at this very sad time.

Georgia and Doug Holmes

I'll be tuning into the livestream service today from Squamish.

Big hugs to Hanna and to Jeff's wife , children, friends and coworkers.

Although I haven't seen Jeff for many years I'll

never forget all the good times and how much fun we had together on the ice and golf course all those years growing up as kids in Winnipeg .

It was a privilege having him in our circle as a youngster.

My deepest condolences to the entire Lailey family.

I would like to share a happy memory that still lives in my head 33 odd years later.

A wink and a smile, a wink and a smile.

I was a bad hockey player. In all my years prior to playing with Jeff, I was always the last cut to make the Tier 3 team at River Heights. Until our Grade 12 year, I finally made the team (to be honest, there were no cuts that year). Jeff and I knew each other by this point through other sports and the countless hours we played hockey outdoors.

They had to play me somewhere on this team, so the coaches (Yaks, Fee, and Bound) decided to hide me on Jeff’s line. “Lailey-Lomas-McKenzie” was a familiar sound that year.

The season started, and to say Jeff helped me would be an understatement. In the offensive zone, he told me “Just go to the net, Jay or I will find you.”

And that’s what happened. I don’t know how many goals I scored that year, but there were a lot of em. And it wasn’t because of any talent I had, it was all Jeff and Jay. Jeff was so selfless out there. He was such a good hockey player, and made all those around him look so much better.

A wink and a smile…

“He Lom…” - I would hear this the odd time right before a face off in the offensive zone. I would look over at Jeff and he would give me the wink and a smile, and I knew what to do. I would have to circle around the net and pop out on the other side. Magically the puck would either hit my stick and go into the net, or ricochet off some part of my body and go in. We scored a number of goals like this.

A wink and a smile.

Playing hockey with Jeff, not only as a line mate, a team mate, but more importantly as a friend were some of the best times in my life. And he was a big part of it.

I would see Jeff the odd time over the last few years at Victoria Beach, and loved catching up with him. We would end our conversation, and Jeff would give me the wink and a smile.

I am so sorry, and very saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing. He was a big part of some really good memories in my life.

A wink and a smile.

Jeff Lomas

Deeply saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing. He was a great baseball/hockey coach to my son over the years. His enthusiasm, energy, wisdom and smile have touched so many in our community and he’s left an lasting impression on our family. He will be missed. So sorry for your loss.

Laureen, Brandon, Cam

Forever I will remember Jeff as always smiling or laughing, the world lost a great human this day. I had plans to see him on my return to Calgary and it gave me great joy at the time that I was going to catch up with him As a coach, Jeff taught me a great deal about hockey and patience. It was super fun to coach with him. I was disappointed to learn we weren't going to work together this past season, I always enjoyed our time together. Jeff was a first line committer to McKnight hockey and to the children and everyone that he influenced.

Thank you Jeff

All of our Love to you

The Vadnais

My heartfelt condolences to Laureen, Brandon and Cameron. May the beautiful memories you hold deep within your hearts, gently soothe your spirits during this difficult time and in the days and months ahead.

I was heartbroken to hear of Jeff’s sudden passing. I feel blessed that we had a chance to talk just the day before this tragic loss.

I had the great pleasure of working with Jeff for 7 years at West Dover School. Jeff contributed so much to building an amazing staff and creating a culture of community in our school. He was always full of life and excitement in all he did for the staff and students. I have many great memories of him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Laureen, Cam and Branden please accept our sincere condolences on the sudden loss of your husband and father.

Patti and John Doyle

Our deepest sympathy to you all. Jeff was a great coach and generally just an amazing guy. We won’t forget the last time we saw him, when he said ‘I’m counting that as a win!” (when we lost our last game by 1 point). He will be greatly missed.

It’s been difficult to find any words to express how sad and shocked our whole family has been after hearing of Jeff’s passing. His zest for life was unmatched by anyone I have ever known. I will miss his fun loving spirit and his whacky sense of humour. Laureen, Branden and Cameron, our heartfelt condolences to you all. We love you and wish you strength and peace in the coming times and support whenever you need.

So sad to hear about Jeff’s passing. We worked together at Henry Wise Wood High School. He was a breath of fresh air to our administrative team. He always strived to make a positive impact with everyone that he worked with, especially the students. I fondly remember how much he cared about the ACCESS students and how they truly appreciated his kindness and efforts to make them flourish. May he rest in peace and my deepest sympathies to Laureen and the rest of his family.

Jeff was ALWAYS full of energy. The last time I saw Jeff, Laureen and the boys was years ago when they popped in for a visit at Clear Lake. We went out in the pontoon and I am pretty sure he did more cannonballs into the freezing cold water than the rest of us put together. I have such fond memories of Jeff and Laureen in our early years of teaching. All three of us were in the Antler River School Division. Jeff in Waskada, Laureen in Melita and me in Deloraine, I cherish those memories of long ago. Laureen, I think about you and the boys everyday. ❤️❤️❤️. We will get reacquainted in the near future. Loads of love to you from me,

Michelle Franklin

Laureen, Branden, and Cameron, my heart goes out to all of you. The world lost a wonderful human much too early. I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Jeff was a remarkable person and had an incredible impact on my life and career that I’ll be forever grateful for.

I first met Jeff when he was the Assistant Principal of Henry Wise Wood High School - I was a new grade 10 student trying to find my place and I still remember distinctly him taking time to introduce himself and check-in on (and really listen!) how things were going. He quickly learned about some of my interests and skills in the I.T. world and connected me with the right people to get involved developing our school website - it was an opportunity to turn some skills from that could get me into trouble into skills for good. This led to numerous volunteer and consulting opportunities, including with the Rosedale Community Association. Jeff and I also had some opportunities to work on some system projects at the CBE when he was a System Assistant Principal for Learning Innovation. He was an incredible advocate and champion through all of it.

When we connected again, I was a university education student and Jeff invited me to volunteer and student teach at West Dover School. He facilitated some of the best learning experiences I had in my undergraduate degree, and together we piloted some then pretty innovative ed tech work (including lots of “band aids” to make things work!) that later became the basis for my career in education technology.

While we haven’t been in touch in a few years, the impact that Jeff Lailey had on my life is one that I often consider instrumental in helping to shape my own identity and the educator that I have become. He took the time to know me and to care, and that made all the difference. He was an inspiring educator that I aspire to be like.

My hearted ached when I heard the news about Jeff's passing. I had the pleasure of working alongside Jeff in both school and system leadership roles with the Calgary Board of Education. Together we provided leadership and support to a team of very skilled educational technology learning specialists. Jeff was extraordinary in his role and how he worked with people. In his work he was strived to do what was right and ensure the biggest benefits to students and their learning were realized. He maintained that student-centred leadership throughout his career and the various roles he had in the CBE.

Not only did we share similar views about teaching, learning and leadership, we shared common views on family, friendship and life in general. In all my years of working, he is the only person whom I've had the pleasure of regularly conducting what we called "meetings on the move". Most weeks we would have a meeting where we ran side-by-side through city parks and down pathways while we planned, problem solve and set priorities.

Jeff was an exceptional educator, leader, father, colleague and friend. He was taken far to early, but in that time was able to leave an indelible and positive mark on all those to whom he was connected; whether they be colleague, student, parent, friend or family member.

Jeff will be deeply missed by many. My heart goes out to Laureen, Branden and Cameron. May they take some comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on through them and their memories of him as well as the way he has shaped their lives and equipped them to move forward as individuals and a family.

Mr Lailey as I knew him was my gym teacher in elementary school at west Dover. That was 5 years ago and my memory is less then perfect but I do remember him teaching us about patrolling and how proud it seemed that his son was, Cam. My condolences go out to the family this is a terrible lost and I was extremely shocked. I’m glad he got to live a life full of the things that made him happy. Thank you Mr Lailey for everything.

Jeff was a volunteer at the community outdoor rink and he showed me the ropes when I joined the maintenance crew this past January. To me, learning to operate machinery for the first time was a daunting task, but his gentle and patient guidance allowed me to build confidence at my own pace.

Learning that I was a novice skater, Jeff also encouraged me to bring my skates. Later that week, he skated with me after our work was done and gave me skating advice. His warm welcome was huge for me, and from shadowing him, I could see his dedication to providing a great space for his kids and his community to enjoy.

I only spent a short amount of time with Jeff, but my skills, habits, and routines at the rink will always be influenced by him. He will be missed in the community and my thoughts are with your family.

Jeff was an fantastic individual! From the first time we met at a hockey skate in the mid 90s to the last visit we had at our community gas station in 2023. He had an ever-present smile, patience & generous nature would always make anyone feel good. He was one of the best skaters with many groups he participated with in Calgary. His modest personality made him a pleasure to play with or against. Always willing to make a nice pass or share the play. He made all of us dream that we were stars to be sharing the ice with such a talented athlete! Jeff could carry the puck coast to coast & even up the score at will. Or he would change jerseys to keep the game enjoyably fair. I recall one of our "head-to-head" confrontations where Jeff was about to burn around my attempt to defend one of his rushes. He endured my extra hard attempt I made checking him, to no avail. Then I selfishly horse collared him & we crashed past the net into boards. Both sides groaned & complained because I had made such a goon check in our so called: "gentleman's shinny". But not Jeff! He arose face to face with that infectious smile & congratulated me on my efforts: "Nice try Rusty"! He relished in the physical competition & never lost his cool.

We became friends outside of our hockey groups & I assisted him with their home renovation. Why wouldn't I? for such a cool dude. My involvement was mostly with construction advice & the loaning of tools as Jeff was very enthusiastic about learning by doing most of the work himself. The neighbour visits allowed me the pleasure of meeting Laureen, Cam & Brandon. I thought what a lovely family which Jeff was so deserving & so very proud of! He made a point of returning all the loaned tools & delivered them with his boys by his side. Always the engaged & attentive father. The children's respectful young attitudes are a testament to Jeff's parental devotion & his steadfast character. As the boys aged he was their volunteer coach with baseball, golf, of course hockey & any number of activities. My frequent drives by Buchanan School either on Centre Street or 36 avenue NW. I would look for Jeff & honk my horn to say: "Hi". Recognizing my truck, he'd wave or shout: "RUSTY"! while with his students playing soccer or herding them into the school. He never ceased to impress! A true leader & a mentor to the next generation.

Jeff Lailey was an inspiration to all that have had the pleasure of meeting such a classy person. He was my neighbour, a team mate & most of all made me so proud to be able to call him my friend! He is & will be sorely missed!

Thanks for reading, Russ Pahl

I will never forget Jeff's passion and commitment to students and colleagues. I was fortunate to work with Jeff at HWW and Learning Innovation, and I learned so much about leadership from him. His impact has made a lasting impact on so many. Sending my heartfelt condolences to Laureen, Branden, and Cameron.

In the first half of 2023, I was a foster parent to a girl who joined Buchanan School. Jeff went out of his way to meet us early on her first day, helped find the best seat in the classroom for this new student, and was just an all-around amazing and comforting presence. When I left the school with my foster daughter’s caseworker, the caseworker said “wow, please don’t be disappointed in future if your other experiences with schools do not match that one.” Jeff’s presence continued in my life — whether he knew it or not — as my little girl came home many days with stories about how fantastic, kind and funny her principal was.

I’m so sorry for this loss — for Jeff’s family, friends and so many lives he’s touched over the years.

My sincere condolences on the loss of a great man and an outstanding Educator. My thoughts and prayers are with Laureen and the entire family. Jeff will be greatly missed by the Buchanan School staff, students and families. He made a great impact with so many students over the years. May God comfort you during this most difficult time.

John and Julia Bell

SO UNFAIR

Laureen, Branden and Cam....our thoughts are with you today and in the days ahead. On behalf of the extended Loewen family we send our deepest condolences.

Wir sind unendlich traurig und können es noch nicht wirklich begreifen. Liebe Laureen unser herzliches Beileid für Dich, Deine Söhne und natürlich Hanna. In Gedanken sind wir bei euch.

Peter und Renate

We’re deeply sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the memories shared and strength in the support of those around you. We’ll be here for You, Branden and Cameron during this challenging time. ❤️

Lee, Jamey, paige and Bradley Loewen,

Words cannot even express how sad the losing of Jeff was. He was a great friend. I’ll never forget how excited he was to take Bradley golfing. Life will never be the same without him. I will help you through this journey of grief.

The dude had an infectious smile and was always laughing. We went to many Jets games together back in the day and always hit up the "Hard Rock" between periods. We tipped many bevy's at the Pemby, played ball together and was part of our first Brass Giraffe. He will be missed.

My heart goes out to you and your family. My deepest condolences.

Our Hearts go out to you Laureen & your family,,, so sad to hear Jeff passed Hugs to you...

Condolences to Laureen, Branden and Cameron . We will always remember his smile and deep laugh. He used to tease me about the metropolis of Binscarth . He backed up on that after he saw the awesome fireworks that Binscarth enjoyed . Jeff seemed to be able to make himself at home wherever he last . We will always remember him as a life well lived .

My condolences to all of you! Laureen, firstly, and most importantly, I remember golfing with you and Jeff and Branden. I was amazed that Branden was so self-controlled and content to hit a few balls in the sand traps! Jeff was an awesome dad, and I'm honored to have witnessed how he introduced your first son to one of his passions in such a patient, supportive and completely unconventional way! You will have many more examples to share with your beautiful boys. Secondly, I remember him providing inspirational science lessons at Alice Jamieson, the all-girl's school, where they learned the most important lesson he taught through the example of his love for you. Can still see his incredible smile and the light in his eyes whenever you were together. Chemistry lesson at its best!

My sincere condolences to the family. Jeff and I played Rangers together and in younger years were rivals westdale vs Cardinals. and I remember his kind smile and that’s spark in his eyes you wrote about. I am so sad hearing of his passing and want to send hugs to everyone even if you don’t remember me. I’m in River a heights now and think of Jeff whenever I drive by the arena. God bless! Brett Christie

Laureen, Brandon & Cameron,

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I am truly sorry to hear of the loss of Jeff. There are no words for the legacy Jeff has left on your family. His shining personality will live on in your hearts. Jeff has made a difference in so many lives, his love and guidance will forever be a part of you. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him

I am praying for you , Brandon and Cameron to have peace and strength at this time, You have my deepest sympathies.

~ Cathy Drake ( Cheryl’s sister)

Very fitting portrayal of the Jeff I knew … my family was fortunate to travel to Maui with Jeff, Lauren, Brandon and Cameron . We enjoyed our time and cherish our friendship.

I remember Jeff and I golfing in Maui. It was twilight, we were on the 15 th or 16th fairway. This hole looks over the ocean … the sun setting and whales cresting in the bay … beautiful…

Jeff turns to me and says you know why we come to Maui each year … I want my family to have memories of us doing things … being together… I had them as a kid and I want my kids to have great memories…. Jeff’s wisdom oh so many years ago on that fairway … a husband … father … great friend!

Buchanan School Parent Council extend our hearts to Jeff's family as they mourn this tremendous, and unimaginable loss.

He was many things to many people, living his life with both arms open, always giving so freely of his time - never asking to be thanked. Whether you knew Jeff for a few days, months or years, he no doubt left an indelible mark. He leaves a huge hole at Buchanan School, and in the wider community. We will miss him.

I have been a part of the Buchanan Community for 11 years, and have had the privilege of working with Jeff as an in school volunteer and on the parent council during his time as principal. His commitment to the parents, students, staff and wider community are unrivaled. He encouraged me on day one of his tenure at Buchanan to come into the school and volunteer, and his enthusiasm and energy have inspired me to give more and more of my time ever since. He inspired me to lead in a way that I never have before, and I will forever appreciate all the ways he supported my leadership.

One of the greatest lessons that Jeff imparted to me is that even if you don't feel like you have the time to do everything just right- you should do it anyway! I learned that showing up for others, even imperfectly, is always worth it.

Rest in Peace, principal Jeff.

All my love, Meagan Kelln

Jeff was an amazing hockey coach who motivated us to be our best on the ice. We had a joke going about me baking the team cookies each time we had a win! I will miss him so much. Sending deepest condolences and my thoughts and prayers to Cameron and his family. .

Hannah Penner

To Laureen, Cameron and the Lailey family

We would like to extend our sympathies and condolences for the sudden and shocking loss of Coach Jeff. Griffen had the benefit of being on Jeff's team for two different seasons. Jeff was always kind and gentle. He will be missed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this incredibly difficult time.

Griffen Mulder and family

I worked with Jeff at both Annie Gale and Western Canada and we had a lot of fun and laughs. From leading his classes to Tug of War championships & helping organize Teacher vs Student hockey games, we had so many fun experiences with students. I enjoyed our afterschool staff hockey games that he helped organize. This is so shocking and heartbreaking. He will be missed and I thank him for so many fun memories. My thoughts and prayers and with Laureen and the boys.

I had the privilege to work with Jeff for a year and have continued to sub at his school. I introduced him to Oxbow Golf Course and got to play a game of golf with Jeff and Cameron. There is a huge gap at the school but nothing compared what Laureen, Brandon and Cameron are going through. You were taken way too soon Jeff and you will be missed terribly. Sue Worrall

Laureen, Cameron, and Brandon, I'm truly sorry for your loss. There are no words that can heal your pain, but I hope that you can find comfort in all the amazing memories and stories. Jeff had a deep impact on many people and it's evident that he was not only a remarkable person but also a source of inspiration and encouragement to many. The memories and stories people share speak volumes about his positive influence and the joy he brought to those he interacted with.

Losing someone like Jeff is undoubtedly a profound and painful experience, and I hope that, in time, the memories of his laughter, positivity, and passion for life will bring comfort to you and others who knew him.

It's clear that his passion for teaching and his ability to bring out the best in others will leave a lasting legacy. He pushed me beyond my comfort zone as a teacher and challenged me to try new things. The biggest honor that he bestowed upon me was allowing me to teach Cameron. Thank you for trusting me with teaching Cameron, pushing me to explore new ideas, and making me a better educator.

In this difficult time, I extend my deepest condolences to you and all those who were touched by Jeff's warmth and kindness. May you find strength in each other and the shared memories as you navigate through the grieving process.

Raluca Neamtu

Laureen, Cameron and Brandon I am so saddened to hear of Jeff”s passing he was a great man and I am honoured to have had the opportunity to coach with him with McKnight Hockey. Jeff was an inspirational person and will be sadly missed by all that he touched. I share in your grief with the loss of your husband, father, friend, teacher, coach and teammate.

He will not be forgotten

Best wishes

Brad O’Keefe

To Laureen, Brandon, Cam, and the rest of Jeff's family,

I was so shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Jeff's passing. I share in your grief and sadness.

I owe so much to Jeff. Not only did he take a chance on me at the start of my teaching career, encouraging his Principal to hire me, but he also helped me find my place to shine when I was a student, and he was an AP, at Henry Wise Wood High School. Jeff saw something in an anxious high schooler, and gave me opportunities to contribute to the wider school community - something I so valued.

Watching Jeff as a teacher and as a Dad was so inspiring. Jeff could oftentimes boil down complex situations we encountered with students or parents into simple and concise pathways forward. "Just get to know your kids, don't worry about anything else for now" he told me in my first days as a new teacher. "You help them if they come to school, leave the rest to me" was another nugget when I was worried about a student's attendance.

I'll never forget the time, during my teacher evaluations, where my students were discussing whether cats or dogs were the better pet. Jeff listened for a bit and then promptly Youtubed funny cat videos on the smart board - totally derailing the lesson and delighting the kids. He chuckled and walked out the door. When he came back, he informed me I'd passed my evaluation. Jeff never took himself too seriously, and had such a good balance and zest for life - something I greatly admired.

Jeff touched so many lives, and will be deeply missed by so many.

Michael Smith

Henry Wise Wood High School Student (when Jeff was Assistant Principal)

West Dover School Teacher (also when Jeff was Assistant Principal)

In loving memory of Jeff. I had the honor of working with Jeff for the past 3 1/2 years. Jeff was always quick to share a smile and he will be greatly missed.

Don’t think of him as gone away

his journey’s just begun,

life holds so many facets

this earth is only one.

Just think of him as resting

from the sorrows and the tears

in a place of warmth and comfort

where there are no days and years.

Think how he must be wishing

that we could know today

how nothing but our sadness

can really pass away.

And think of him as living

in the hearts of those he touched…for nothing loved is ever lost

and he was loved so much.

Kerrie Thornton Health Advisor CBE

My deepest sympathy to all of Jeff’s family he was such a wonderful man and loved my kid Blake so much, so sad we lost him so soon and my heart goes out to you all. Rest in peace and fly high Jeff

Very few work mates that I've had as much fun on the job as I did with Jeff. Amazing guy, athlete, father, husband, and friend. Jeff, you'll be missed. My condolences.

Our children Andrew and Johanna grew up with Jeff on Queenston Street in Winnipeg, Jeff and Andy played hockey together along with the other River Heights Cardinal team members-many hours of games, practice, car pools, laughs, and tears too!!!

Special times with special memories.

And to Jeff’s family and his mom, Hanna we send our sincere condolences. We hope that happy memories will be forever in your mind and always in your hearts

Love from Gerry&Leita Nemiroff