We Remember

KOETZ, Jean Rose

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

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