We Remember
BRAUN, Jane Diane
April 11, 1943 — March 11, 2023
It is with sorrow and love that we mourn the passing of Jane Diane Braun (née Biffart), of Kelowna, BC, on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at the age of 79 years. She passed peacefully from complications of Alzheimer’s; her long struggle has come to an end, and we will miss her dearly. She is especially remembered by her husband of 59 years, Leonard Braun; son, Jason (Brigit); grandchildren, Cole (Asha), Jaydn, and Hope; as well as by her brother, Gerald Biffart; numerous nieces and nephews; and numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law, all of whom experienced her love, warmth, and kindness.
Jane was born April 11, 1943, in Lafleche, Saskatchewan, and she grew up on a farm in nearby Woodrow with her parents and brother, Gerald. After completing high school in Caronport, Saskatchewan, she attended business college in Medicine Hat, Alberta, where she learned the skill of bookkeeping which she would put to good use for the rest of her life. She met her husband, Leonard, on a blind date, and they were married in Medicine Hat, Alberta on November 2, 1963. Throughout much of their lives together, Jane did the bookkeeping and office management for many of Leonard’s business ventures, including the Kelowna Auction Dome.
Jane was a much-loved member of her family and community. She was known for her kindness and gentleness and was always available for conversation, a hug, or a kind word. She enjoyed serving her neighbours; she and Len would open their home and host regular coffee hours to whomever dropped by. Jane served up hot coffee and baked goods for her neighbours for 35 years! Additionally, Jane and Len’s home was a favourite stopping place for visits by many friends and family over the years. She enjoyed her church community, where she sang, taught Sunday School, and served as president of Kelowna Christian Women for a time. She also volunteered regularly at the MCC Thrift Store.
Jane’s second home was Yuma, Arizona. She and Len spent 14+ winters there and created friendships that have lasted a lifetime.
Her pride and joy on this earth was her son, Jason. She was his biggest fan in all of his life’s endeavours, including going to his many baseball games and tournaments and supporting his work in Christian ministry. She additionally treasured the opportunity to be a grandmother.
In her spare time, Jane loved gardening and tending to her flowers. Her baking was amazing, and Len says she was “the best cook ever!”
Above all, her faith and love for Jesus was the most important thing in her life. She actively shared her faith with friends, relatives, and strangers. So, now we give her back to her first love, and we rest in the knowledge that she is of sound mind and body, fully restored and whole in the presence of her Saviour. She was predeceased by her parents, Albert and Martha Biffart; sister-in-law, Sybil Biffart; and unborn twins, with whom she is now joyfully re-united.
We thank the doctors and staff at Village at Mill Creek in Kelowna for all their kindness, concern, and assistance to Jane and the family during the sunset of her life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Mennonite Central Committee Canada (MCC).
A Celebration of Life will be held on FRIDAY, MAY 12, 2023, at 2:00 PM,at Willow Park Church in Kelowna, BC (439 Hwy 33, Kelowna, BC, V1X 1Y2). If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
FRIDAY, MAY 12, 2023, at 2:00 PM
Location
Willow Park Church in Kelowna, BC (439 Hwy 33, Kelowna, BC)
Share with Others:
Mennonite Central Committee Canada (MCC) Link: mcccanada.ca
Service Information
Service Details
The service for BRAUN, Jane Diane is scheduled for FRIDAY, MAY 12, 2023, at 2:00 PM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.
Address & Contact for Service Location:
Willow Park Church in Kelowna, BC (439 Hwy 33, Kelowna, BC)
439 Hwy 33, Kelowna, BC
Phone:
Special Requests:
None.
Funeral Pointers:
Condolences
We loved her so much, and will miss her, but have very fond memories of all our times together. Pray God’s comfort and peace for all the family
Our deepest condolences to Len and family. We cherish the memories of jumping over the fence in Yuma and having morning coffee with both of you. May God grant His love and peace to all who will miss her. Earth’s loss and heavens gain.
Jane we miss you, but we take comfort knowing it doesn’t end here. We will see you in heaven some day. You were an amazing friend. ❤
I was deeply saddened to hear of Janes passing. We have been out of touch for many years now, yet my fond memories remain. Len and Jane both have been kind, caring and generous to me.. I always felt welcome at their home and a number of times over the years would show up unannounced – just to say hello.. I never once felt unwelcome or like I was inconveniencing them and was greeted with hospitality, something to drink and eat and a seat with them in their den and a good conversation. They helped outfit me with my first car and took in my dog when I was young and unable to care for it.
Jane was a very special person. She will be sorely missed and my heart goes out to Len for losing the girl of his dreams and to Jason and his family for losing an amazing Mother and Grandmother..
I look forward to seeing her again one day. Until then Jane, you are in good company.
Sincerely, Lindsay & Family.
Len,
Our hearts reach out to you. What a great loss. Know that you are loved.
Jane is a kind and warm person. I love her laugh and warm smile. I enjoyed many visits with her and Len in Kelowna. My condolences Len. Hugs.
What a beautiful tribute to Jane. Trust everyone who heard, received the Gospel message! Thankful for her and Len giving our daughter a Godly husband. She was a beautiful example of a loving and kind Christian and a joy to be around! So sorry we we were not able to be at the service!