Jean:

Share a memory or condolences to family.

For the first 5 years of my life, we lived at my grandmother & grandfather’s house in Toronto. My dad, Henry, is Jean’s older brother by 18 years. Living at grandma & grandpa’s meant that I got to play everyday with Jean & with my other 2 aunties, Grace & I-goo. Jean was only 10 years older than me so she was like a big sister.

When i was 5, my parents & my sister, Jolly, moved to our own house. My 2 brothers, Alex & Howard, were born after we moved. My sister & I were the lucky ones to spend so much time with our beloved aunties.

I really looked forward to having sleepovers at grandma & grandpa’s because I got to hang out with my aunties some more!

Jean took me on my first real trip when I was 16. We were 4 girls in California! Jean & her girlfriend and me & my girlfriend. The trip was amazing. When I think back on that time, 1981, Jean was only 26! I can’t imagine why Jean & her friend took two teenage girls on vacation with them. I am sure we cramped their style. I remember us chatting to some nice firemen in a restaurant at lunch time. Hmm, …

In 2003, Jean, Alan, Ian & Melanie came to meet me & my husband, Jay, in Kananaskas, Alberta on the set of X-Men 2: X-Men United. Ian & Melanie were young kids. The kids got to meet & take pictures with Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) & they saw Magneto (Sir Ian McKellen) working out in the gym with booty-shorts (micro-shorts) on. I remember Melanie saying, “look, it’s Gandalf- he really does have a big nose.” lol We enjoyed some quality fun-filled family time!

Before Covid-19 began, Jean & I planned a trip to Portugal. Actually, Jean was going on her own with a tour group. I said she can’t go alone so I invited myself to tag along. We were looking forward to eating new foods and seeing beautiful Portugal.

When it was safe to travel again, Jean decided she wasn’t up for the trip. She wasn’t feeling well. So we cancelled it and hoped we could go later.

Jean had always been a big part of my life. She was wonderful, fun, kind & caring. I love her and will miss her so much. I will cherish all the moments I shared with her & her family.

Her loving niece,

Tammy Mark-McClennen

Jean has been a good friend since we met 30 years ago at a CHADD meeting to learn strategies for dealing with children with ADHD. Our friendship grew and in more recent years we shared good times hiking and just getting together for coffee. I valued our times together and I will always have fond memories of Jean. My condolences to Alan, Ian, and Melanie for your loss.

Dear Alan,

My sincere condolences to you and your family on the passing of Jean.

Anne Bloomberg.

We are deeply saddened about the passing of Jean. Hopefully you can find some small comfort in the cherished moments you shared together, and may her memory bring you peace.

With love, the Norrie family

Our dear Jean will always remain in our hearts and minds. Her love, kindness and compassion touched everyone around her. She was an inspiration in my life since childhood and I will always cherish all my memories of her. I'm so grateful to have had Jean as my aunt. I love her, miss her and will always be inspired by the beautiful and amazing person she was.

Alan, Ian and Mel, I hope you find comfort in the love and memories you shared together. She was always proud of her loving family and the great life she had with you. I'm sure her presence will always be felt and her eternal love will continue to surround you.

My dear Jean, my big sister and neighbor for almost 30 years. We treasure all the unforgettable moments together. You live on in the hearts of those you touched

Jean brought joy, happiness and laughter to everyone who met her. She will be deeply missed by everyone. We will cherish all of the moments we have had together, especially our Christmas dinners. Celebrating the life of a wonder person.

The She Family

I was fortunate to work with Jean at MRU for several years. She brought such passion and knowledge to her work and the students she supported. I will miss her musical laughter and kind smile. May your loving memories bring comfort.

Melanie, my deepest condolences go out to you and your family, I did not know your mom, but I know you! Your mom brought you up to be an amazing person, I appreciate you, and know that your mom will be looking down on you to see you live the rest of your life.

Ron Hindemith

Dearest Alan, Ian and Melanie:

Our deepest condolences. Cousin Jean gave much to the world and enriched our lives in so many ways. Her memory and legacy live on in our hearts.

With Aloha.

Susan & Wendell Foo and Family

Jean was a wonderful friend in the 30 years that I knew here. Many wonderful memories of hiking, getting together for coffee and wonderful conversations. Alan, Ian and Melanie will be blessed with wonderful memories of a wonderful wife and

mother. Our thoughts are with the family at this time.

The Lehman family, Latrice, Keith, Jeff and Cam

I'm so sorry to hear of Jean's passing. I had the great pleasure of working with her at MRU. Jean was extraordinary with students and also went above and beyond to help and care for them. She will be missed.

I first met Jean when we moved onto Dorey Court (Kanata) in 1990. She was the first neighbour to welcome us to the Court. We’d spend hours chatting as our children played. Only a few short years later, Jean, Alan, Ian, & Melanie moved to Calgary and Dorey Court missed them dreadfully. Jean & I remained in touch & every time we passed through Calgary, we’d catch up in person.

Jean always put others before herself. I will always be in her debt when, in 2014, she, Melanie, & their cat, drove to Vancouver to spend several days with my son, Alex, & me as he went through chemo. Jean knew that we needed a friend who was willing to make our lives ‘normal’, even if for just a few days.

I’ve met a lot of wonderful people in my life but no one comes close to Jean for the compassion she had for friends and family. Our deepest condolences go to Alan, Melanie, and Ian as they struggle with the passing of this loving woman.