Janette Elizabeth Smith

Jan, Mom, Gramma, With heartbreak and sadness, we announce the passing of Jan, age 85. Jan passed away peacefully at North Shore Hospice, after spending the day with her family, and with Darrel at her side. Jan battled cancer 5 years ago, fought through treatment for two years to win that battle. Ultimately Jan succumbed to the disease that challenged her for so long. Jan was predeceased by her brother Fred. Jan is lovingly remembered by her beloved husband Darrel, her sister Lois, daughter Allison (Warren), son Ken (Carol), son Michael, 6 grandchildren; Carlie, Nicole, Shawna, Katrina, Connor, and Natalie, and many dear friends. Jan was born in Powell River, and moved to Vancouver in the 1940s, where she attended General Wolfe Elementary school, King Edward Secondary school, then VGH school of nursing. Before retiring, Jan spent some time in Berkley, California, before returning home to work in the OR at VGH. Jan was a nurse at VGH, and worked with the VON in North Vancouver, and in Calgary where they lived for 10 years in the 1980s. One of Jan's highlights was volunteering at the 1988 Calgary Olympics. Jan and Darrel were high school sweethearts, and married in 1959. They were fortunate to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in November of 2019. Jan and Darrel enjoyed travel, particularly via cruise ships. Throughout the years they enjoyed square-dancing, and Jan enjoyed doing arts and crafts, gardening, playing bridge, participating in church activities, her many dear friends, her pets, and adored her family and spending time with her grandchildren. Jan’s favourite get-away was to our family cabin on the Sunshine Coast. Jan loved Hummingbirds, and was frequently making nectar to feed them, both at the cabin and her home in North Vancouver. Now Darrel continues to make the nectar to put out for the birds. Legends say that the hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. Hummingbirds open our eyes to the wonder of the world and inspire us to open our hearts to loved ones and friends. Like a hummingbird, we aspire to hover and to savour each moment as it passes, embrace all that life has to offer and to celebrate the joy of every day. The hummingbird's delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life's sweetest creation. Hummingbirds have long been a symbol of hope, wisdom, courage and unwavering determination. May we challenge you to be like the hummingbird and do whatever you can to help others who face overwhelming challenges. Remembrances may be made to the LGH/North Shore Hospice, where Jan was so wonderfully cared for by the amazing staff, whom we thank from the bottom of our hearts. A gathering for Jan with family and friends will take place when circumstances allow.