In Celebration of
JEAN THOM MACKENZIE OLESZKOWICZ
December 25, 1922 -
March 30, 2024
In her 102nd year, after a wonderful and well-lived life, Jean passed away peacefully on March 30, 2024. Ready at last to re-join the love of her life, her husband Stan who predeceased her in 2001.
Born Jane Thom Mackenzie Ferguson in Dundee, Scotland on December 25, 1922, Jean was the first to arrive and last to leave of the children born to her parents, David and Jean Ferguson. Her younger siblings Betty, Diana, Dave, and Irene all predeceased her. Loving mother of Alek (Dyanne) and Vic (Janna). Proud grandmother of Allison (Gary), Scott (Karen), Steven, MacGyver (Erinn), Matthew and Christopher. Amazed great-grandmother (GiGi) to Kai, Kira, Kianna, Zackery and Kenji.
After spending her formative years in Scotland, Jean navigated the threats of World War II, including service in London, England during the Blitz. Marrying Stan after the War, the two of them became 20th Century pioneers, joining many others from war-torn Europe seeking a new life in Canada. Overcoming many challenges through determination and perseverance, Jean and Stan established themselves in Canada and paved the way for many of her family to follow. Her successful business career, focused on financial management in the pension sector, was highlighted by 15 years at the Eaton Retirement Annuity Plan and 17 years at OMERS, from whence she retired in 1987.
She inherited the informal mantle of Family Matriarch upon her Mother’s passing and , accordingly, dispensed her love and wisdom, whether solicited or not, in an effort to make the lives of all around her a little better. A strong, remarkable woman who impacted so many family and friends in a positive way, Jean will be sorely missed but we are all so grateful to have shared parts of her amazing life.
A big shout-out to the Management and Staff at Erinview, Jean’s retirement residence for the past 5 years, for the care, compassion and love they extended to her, ensuring her unending comfort and happiness.
A Celebration of Jean’s life will take place at the Turner and Porter Peel Chapel, 2180 Hurontario Street,
Mississauga on Saturday, April 13, 2024. Visitation for friends and family will commence at 2PM and a tribute to Jean’s life will begin at 3PM, reception to follow.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jean can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
