Obituary of Janet Mary Millicent Benison

January 20, 1959 – Montreal, Quebec

April 22, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Janet Mary Benison, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Calgary, AB, surrounded by her loving family after a challenging battle with cancer.

Janet was born January 20, 1959, in Lachine, QC and grew up with her two sisters, Gloria and Krysia. Janet’s parents, Stefania and Karl Nikolits, immigrated to Canada after World War II, and her European heritage greatly influenced Janet’s appreciation for languages and passion for cooking. She spent her life perfecting her mother’s chicken noodle soup recipe and would make a fresh batch of the most delicious strawberry jam every season.

After marrying her loving husband, Steven Benison, in 1979, they moved and raised their three children, Andrew (Nadine), Ashley (Mitch), and Jamie (predeceased) in Upper Musquodoboit, NS, where she lived until moving to Calgary, to enjoy her retirement years being closer to her children and grandchildren.

As a mother, Janet was boundless in giving her time, wisdom, and love. She cared deeply for her family and would often say, “If you need anything, just ask.” She was always the first to offer help and remind us to “Listen to your angel.”  As a grandmother or Gros-Maman, as she was affectionately called, Janet was in her element. She so loved being able to take care of and spend time with her three grandchildren, Lili-Claire, James, and Brynlee. 

Janet was a vibrant soul who embraced every season with gusto. Throughout the summer, she found joy amidst her beloved marigolds in the garden, nurturing them with care and dedication. When winter arrived, Janet's industrious spirit shone as she enthusiastically tackled the snow-covered driveway. Regardless of the weather, Janet's unwavering commitment to her health and vitality was evident in her daily ritual of swimming, a testament to her enduring resilience and zest for life.

Comforted in the embrace of cherished memories, her legacy lives on, a beacon of love and wisdom guiding us through each passing day.

The family would like to thank all the staff at the Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre, for the care, compassion, and friendship shown to Janet.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Calgary Health Foundation – Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre, Suite 800, 11012 Macleod Trail S.E., Calgary, AB T2J 6A5, Telephone: (403)943-0615, www.thetrust.ca.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Janet’s family here.

In living memory of Janet Benison, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.