We Remember
KOETZ, Jean Rose
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It is with heavy hearts and great sadness we announce the sudden passing of our sister Jean Koetz, March 25, 2017 in Kelowna after losing a courageous battle with cancer. Jean was born in Kelowna General Hospital May 14, 1957 and spent most of her younger years on the family farm in Black Mountain. She graduated from Rutland Senior Secondary and followed her early interests in police work enrolling in the Criminology program at Douglas College receiving her Diploma in Criminology. From there she transferred to Simon Fraser University continuing her studies in Criminology. This eventually led her into training for a Corrections Officer and then getting a job with the Federal Government in the department of Corrections. Jean worked many years in the lower mainland in various settings as a Corrections officer until she relocated to Kelowna to be closer to family. Jean’s love of fishing and camping was shared by her friends here in the Okanagan. She took great joy teaching her grandnephew the basics of fishing in Mission Creek. She shared as many celebrations with her nieces and nephews as she could as they all made her so proud. Jean’s love of travelling took her to Europe many times to visit extended family and cruises to the Caribbean beaches one of which she just recently completed in February. Her community interests took her volunteering with both the Kelowna Ambassadors and Kelowna General Hospital where she made many friends who remember her as kind and generous soul. Jean had an infectious laugh, crazy sense of humor, and a big smile that will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Jean is survived by her sisters Erika O’Reilly (Roger) and Valentina Korva (Boris), nieces, nephews, extended family in Germany and many caring friends. Jean was predeceased by her parents Heinz and Regina Koetz and grandparents. Special thank you to Dr. Sebulsky, Dr. Dueck and Dr. Germaine for their care and support for Jean. A celebration of Jean’s life will be held Saturday, April 1st 4:00 pm at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Rd, Kelowna, BC. If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Service
Saturday, April 1st 4:00 pm
Location
Springfield Funeral Home
Please accept my heartfelt condolences.I was saddened to hear of Jeanie’s passing.
I have many fond memories of Jean as a classmate at RSS and sharing many laughs grading potatoes on your farm that I was lucky enough to work on one summer:)
Thanks for your kind words Chris.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Jean seemed so young at heart and vital, I can’t imagine your pain right now- may God bless you and your family, and keep you, and grant you peace, at such a time as this. My heart and prayers go out to you.
Love,
Shannon
Thanks so much Shannon. It is hard to accept she is not with us anymore. She was a fun loving person with a big heart.
Sorry for your loss. Jeannies great laugh and sense of humour will be remembered.
My condolences go out to the family. I met Jean at a pot luck here in Kelowna years ago.We have remained good friends. We shared so many good times together. I’m going to miss her so much! Her laughter,her smile,her sense of humour. I loved her spontanuity & her contagious laughter.I’ll cherish our memories forever. Going to miss my fishing bud. Your now surrounded in Love & free of pain Jean. RIP-Rejoice In Paradise Jean. Until we meet again my friend.
Thank you much for this picture Cathy. Jean loved fishing with you guys and her best times were on the water in a boat with her rod! She will be missed by all the us. Thanx again.. Erika
Hi Erika, You likely don’t remember me but I lived across from you and Jeannie on Ethel St when you first came to Kelowna. Jeannie and I were good buddies for a few years until you moved out to the farm. I’m so sorry to hear you lost her so soon. Sincerely, Glenn Prior.
Hi Glenn
Yes I do remember you and your folks. We were always at your place and the Hardings. I know Jean and you were good buddies. Yes she is gone too soon and heartbreaking for Tina and I. thank you for your note. Erika
hi..erika………my thoughts and prayers are with u and yours ……long time since we lived across the street from ….kevin harding