September 15, 1940 – July 30, 2017
at the age of 76 years
Jane Helen Essex [nee Watt] 76 born in High River, AB passed away peacefully in her sleep at SLGH on July 30 with her loving husband of 56 years Ron at her side. Jane is also survived by son Christopher in North Vancouver and daughter Karen in Toronto as well as brother Frank Watt in Salmon Arm.
Jane’s wages supported Ron while he completed his training in Education, and early career in Powell River and Richmond, and it was only in Salmon Arm with both children in school that she began her own post-secondary education to become a certified Teacher-on-Call working for 20 years in every subject area imaginable to retire with Ron in 1998.
Two teachers in one family makes for a busy life, along with music lessons for the children, both of whom played in the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra while still in high school.
The family is deeply indebted to the staff of SLGH, particularly the ER nurses, the Chemo nurses, and Ambulatory wound-care nurses, for their always excellent and compassionate care of Jane, and particularly Dr. Malinowski, a dedicated physician and long-time family friend.
There will be no service by request. Donations in Jane’s name may be made to the Shuswap Hospital Foundation, Box 265, Salmon Arm, BC, V1E 4N3, shuswaphospitalfoundation.org.
Ron, I wish to express my condolences and will miss Jane.
My condolences to Ron and the children. Jane and Ron took me in as a high school student for a summer while my parents travelled. I’ll always remember Jane’s warmth and kindness, and that dazzling smile.
Sincere condolences, Ron and family
Lawrence & Mary Williams
Dear Ron,
I was sorry to learn of Jane’s passing. I had many great conversations with her over the years when we were both on the “sub” list. I also enjoyed several coffee parties at you lovely spot in Gleneden. She was above all else a wife and mother which were the roles she loved. You and your children will miss her and I offer you my sincerest sympathy.
Bernadette Jordan
I’d like to share with you the most precious moments during the time I owned Uschi’s Bistro in Enderby from 1995-2000. Very often when Jane had a hair appointment in Enderby, she would bring her mother to my Bistro to have a cup of tea with my Siamese Cross cat Mao. Jane’s mother would sit at the round table with Mao sitting across from her on a chair (so one only saw Mao’s face) and converse with him while Jane got her hair done. Every one of those teatime moments were perfection. Thank you, Jane, for bringing your mom to tea.
My deepest sympathy to all
Uschi