In Memory of

Jane

Slessor

Obituary for Jane Slessor

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected and sudden passing of Lorna Jane “Jane” Slessor (nee Spek), on Sunday, August 21, 2022 in her 60th year. Her last moments were spent happily with her children and granddaughters, and she subsequently passed surrounded by her family at Soldiers Memorial Hospital, Orillia. Loving bride of 20 years with the most special connection to the late Don Slessor. Devoted and generous daughter to Janet Bannon (nee Leitch) and the late Robert “Bob” Spek. Amazing sister of Brian (Tammy). Dedicated, committed, and selfless stepmother to Lily (Adam), Jeremy (Allison), and Angela (Jake), loving them as her own children. Adventurous and exciting Auntie Janie “AJ” and fly-in sitter to Cameron, Madison, and Brittney. Beloved and fun Nana to Lila, Maggie, Jacie, and Willa. She leaves many wonderful memories with her aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and just about anybody who had the fortune of meeting her. Her excitable and loving labradoodle, Bobbi, will miss her routine of sharing eggs for breakfast and getting two toys after every trip to the pet store.

A graduate from Laurier University, University of Western Ontario, and University of Toronto - OISE, Jane never stopped learning and devoting herself to her profession. Dedicated French teacher for over 30 years, she will be missed by many colleagues and former students of York Region District School Board and Simcoe County District School Board. Growing up, Jane ran track and was a lifelong piano player from the age of 6. Jane loved dipping in the lake at “Moon Bay” on Lake Simcoe in recent years, summer vacationing on Lake Nipissing in past years, and had many experiences traveling to different countries.

The immediate family would like to thank the village of friends and family for their continuous support and love. Words cannot express the endless gratitude and love to Michael Calderone for his unwavering commitment to the family over the years and in this time of distress. Immeasurable appreciation is extended to the ICU staff at Soldiers Memorial Hospital for their empathy, kindness, and professionalism, and to Mary Copp, chaplain.

People have defined Jane as a wonderful person who brought joy to all she met; a beautiful soul; the kindest, most loving, welcoming person; an amazing woman; an amazing friend and confidante; and much, much more. Jane was the epitome of what it meant to be available and how to care for others in need. We all feel the immense loss, but can hear her voice saying “don’t cry because it’s over; smile because it happened.”

We invite you to celebrate the lives of Don & Jane Slessor on Saturday, October 1st, 2022 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Bellwood Health Services or Soldiers Memorial Hospital.

Tu nous manqueras; merci pour tout.