Margaret Jean CRUICKSHANK (nee Alexander) Aug 10, 1928 – May 13, 2021
Born to Cecil & Edythe Alexander in Vancouver BC, Jean was mother to 5 children - Tammy (Bob Menard), Robin - predeceased 2012, Doug (Elaine Kaga), Cheryl (Jim Topping) and Bruce (Theresa). Cherished grandchildren are Erin, Nora, Brendan, Cameron, Aiden, Eric, Kajsa & Madison. Special great grandchildren are Mya & Chase. She is also survived by her sister Susan Barillaro & nephews Scott & Mark, and special daughters-in-law Krista Fidler & Kim Cruickshank (Smith).
Jean loved to travel & was always up for any adventure. Not surprisingly, she married (1952 - 1970) naval officer Robert (Bob) D Cruickshank & as the quintessential navy wife, followed him across Canada several times. When Bob was at sea – often for 6 months - Jean would jump in the car with very young children & drive from NS to BC to be with her parents! She had many trips abroad with family & friends – USA, Norway, Britain, Ireland, Europe; she adored her cruises – Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean & New England – occasions to dress grandly with her jewelry while seeing the world.
Jean had a big heart, was generous to a fault & always lending a helping hand. She would strike up a conversation with anyone – often complete strangers – and made life long friends wherever she went. Family meant everything to Jean - she was so proud of her children & grandchildren & was there for all the special occasions, sports events & of course the horse shows!
The family’s heartfelt thanks goes to Jean’s community in Cochrane - the amazing Cochrane Home Care team; the staff at TB Bank, No Frills, Walmart pharmacy, Evolve Medical Clinic & Dr Trevor Cook, the members of The Seniors on the Bow, and finally her Glensummit Close neighbours - from 2005 -2020 your friendship & watchful eyes kept her happy & safe in her much beloved home overlooking the Rocky Mountains.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. A donation to the Cochrane Humane Society would honour Jean’s love of animals www.cochranehumane.ca. Condolences, memories & photos may be shared and viewed on Jean’s obituary through Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services at www.myalternatives.ca
