Obituary of Jean Whitelock

October 12, 1936 – Elderslie, Renfrewshire, Scotland

May 11, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Jean Stevenson Whitelock, born in Glenifer House, Glenpatrick, Elderslie, Scotland, on October 12, 1936, unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the age of 87 years.

Jean was born and raised in Scotland during the challenging years of the war. She cherished memories of her childhood, spending time at her gran's house and helping on her aunt's farm during Christmas. Jean found joy in working at her auntie Marion's candy store during her youth.

Her passion for sports led her to play badminton and tennis at a local club in Scotland. It was during a family holiday in Troon that she met John Whitelock, whom she married on June 11, 1957. Together, they enjoyed touring the country on John's motorcycle and later in their car, often taking Jean's parents along for Sunday drives.

In 1966, Jean and John immigrated to Canada, where they established their own business, White Heather Imports (The Scottish Shoppe), with stores in Calgary and Banff, AB. They worked tirelessly together, with Jean primarily managing the Banff store. After retirement, they spent their time travelling in their 5th wheel, exploring new places and creating cherished memories.

Jean was known as a hardworking, fun-loving Scottish woman whose thick accent charmed many but sometimes puzzled her friends. She was fair, kind, and always generous, especially during her husband's battle with Alzheimer's, remaining steadfast by his side until his passing.

Jean and John were integral members of Calgary's Scottish community, actively participating in various organizations and social events, including The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society and St. Andrews Caledonian Society. Even after John's passing, Jean remained social and engaged, enjoying outings with friends, and attending community gatherings.

Despite the challenges of aging, Jean remained independent, continuing to drive, and tending to her beloved garden, where she found solace and joy, especially in the company of her grandsons, Matthew Tyler Rauckman and Brandon Whitelock Rauckman. You could often find them working in her garden with her or playing cards and dancing around like fools making her laugh. I remember her saying to Brandon one day when they were gardening that she had something stuck to her jumper (sweater in case you don’t know), Brandon was rolling on the ground laughing and to this day he always tells that story. They shared a special bond filled with laughter and shared moments that will be cherished forever.

Jean made her last trip to Scotland at the age of 82, visiting family and reliving cherished memories. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by the things she loved, and as my Uncle Lewis said, “Now our Bonny Jean has gone to meet her ‘Piper on the Lawn’” her beloved husband John.

Jean is survived by her children, Douglas and Fiona; her grandchildren, Matthew and Brandon; and her extended family in Scotland. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In accordance with Jean's wishes, there will be no service. Instead, a Celebration of Jean’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) in July. Further details will be provided once they have been finalized.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 200, 119 – 14th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 Telephone: (403) 264-5549, www.heartandstroke.ca.

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

In living memory of Jean Whitelock, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.