Jeanette Alice Jackson, age 79 of Stonewall, MB, passed away on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at the Stonewall Hospital due to complications from liver cancer.
Born to Margaret and Bill Jackson on January 3, 1938 in Flin Flon, MB, Jean grew up in Stonewall.
In 1959, she graduated from the Winnipeg General Hospital School of Nursing and began a long and fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse. She worked at the Dr. Evelyn Memorial Hospital in Stonewall for a short period before marrying Jim Riddell in 1960. They lived in Warren and their daughters Tracey (1961) and Bonnie (1962) were born. In 1963 Jean returned to work, taking on the role of Public Health Nurse for Warren and a large surrounding area. In 1966 she decided to stop working, and in 1969 son Mitchell joined the family. Missing her nursing work, she rejoined the staff at the hospital in Stonewall in 1974 and continued her career there for more than 20 years. In 1995, Jean moved back to Stonewall and became a Homecare Worker, which was less demanding on her worn out knees. She retired from work life in 2013 at the age of 75, yet never lost the desire to look after those in need and often provided care and assistance to her friends and neighbors in Lions Manor.
Jean loved music and served as pianist or organist for several churches and choirs over her life. She was an original member of the Quarry Choristers, and enjoyed performing with them for many years. When Bill and Margaret retired, and began wintering in Texas, Jean helped them drive south each January and enjoyed many side trips to Mexico in the bargain. She took up golfing when the course opened in Warren and continued well into her 70’s. She liked playing cards with her friends and always had a good book on the go.
Jean is survived by Tracey and granddaughter Hillary (Brady), Bonnie and granddaughters Kelsey (Fernando), Ari and Brenlee, Mitch (Vanessa) and grandsons, Matthew (Brittany) and Michael (great-grandson William). She also leaves behind many cherished relatives and friends.
The family wishes to thank everyone who cared for her during her last few weeks or brightened her day with a visit or phone call.
A celebration of her life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at MacKenzie Funeral Home.