Jean Mary Boag

Jean passed away, peacefully, at Arrowsmith Lodge in Parksville on January 19, 2021. Mom lived a great life and left behind a family who loved her dearly. Jean was predeceased by her husband of 74 years, Tom, and her parents Malcolm Burnett and Emily Louise [nee West] and sister Marguerite [“Babs”] Pelto. She is survived by her children Ron[Kay], David[Gwenn] and Ann Bartlett; six grandchildren, Tana, John, Mark, Jayme, Shaun, and Heather; and fourteen great grandchildren Adam, Tom, Jaryd, Syerra, Justin, Curran, Ruby, Leo, Jasper, Calder, Sione, Jared, Seamus, and Tanya.

Jean was born in Courtenay, B. C. She has told many stories to the family of growing up with her sister, Babs, in Courtenay. Their positive approach to life, and their strong adult personalities, were our evidence of how true those “Burnett sister” stories were. During WWII, Jean met the love of her life, RCAF airplane mechanic, Tom Boag, at a dance. They were married in April 1945, and off they danced to a great life together.

Mom was an accomplished artist, serious gardener, community volunteer, seamstress and knitter [still wearing some of her wool socks], avid walker, curler, golfer, and one of the best cooks in my life. Also, when she found the time, she loved to travel, particularly if it involved camping with her family.

We, Jean’s children, can truly say that Mom was a warm loving person, who’s face would light up when any of her family were around. She had great instincts, as a mother, knowing just how much influence to bring to a situation. Often, not getting involved at all, and allowing life to follow it’s own path, and trusting our decisions. Her sense of humour was grounded in love. Our Mom was a person who would try to build a person up, showing them how to be strong, and live in the moment. She never dwelt on the negative. Mom had a great deal to do with who we all became, and we thank her, and love her for it.

We gratefully acknowledge the care Jean received from the kind and thoughtful staff at Arrowsmith Lodge. Mom [“Jeanie Beanie” to the staff] was like a 95 year old “energizer bunny”,walking the halls of Arrowsmith, with her smiles and hugs.

Possible service to follow at a later date.