Passed away peacefully on December 26,2022 Surrey, BC in her 96 Year. Predeceased by her husband John, son Patrick, son-in-law Chris, also siblings Jack, Robert, Doug and Isabel. Jean was loved and will be missed beyond measure by her family: Terri (Marla), Sue(Chris), Mary(Ralph), Cathy, Dawn(Roger), Doug(Marilyn), Christine, Colin(Renee), Helen(Tom), Dan(Karen), Leigh(Diana), daughter-in-law Lois (Patrick), 22 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren.
Jean Mary McGovern (nee Kimm) was born July 6,1926, in Invermere, BC to the proud parents Jemima and John Kimm who had immigrated to Canada from Scotland in 1925. Jean was the second child and oldest daughter of 5 children and had fond memories of growing up in the Radium BC area with her brothers Jack, Doug, Robert, and sister Isabel. Although growing up in the 1920’s and 30’s had its hardships for Jean, it helped to develop a strong work ethic and resilience that would serve her throughout her life. As well, her pure heart and unwavering faith was always a guiding light in her life.
Upon graduation from high school, Jean moved to Victoria, BC to attend Normal school where she earned her teaching certificate. It was in Jean’s first teaching assignment in Notch Hill, BC where she boarded with the McGovern family, quickly became a part of the family, developed life-long friendships and met John. She became a Catholic before marrying John McGovern on September 2, 1946. They lived and raised their 12 children in Cranbrook, BC (1947-1991). Over the years Jean enjoyed being an active member of the sewing circle, CWL, and a volunteer at Birthright. Other interests included sewing, baking, and canning. Jean was well known for making overnight buns which she generously shared with many.
She always brought kindness, honesty, impeccable integrity and enthusiasm to those around her and especially to those in need. In 1991 Jean and John relocated to Kelowna, BC and in 1998 moved to Walnut Grove, Langley, BC. Over many years Jean and John enjoyed fishing, camping, golfing, and many winters in Mesa, Arizona. Jean embraced life with great enthusiasm and energy and her zest for life shone through in her social committee activities at both her Walnut Grove and Arizona homes alike. During her 80th year, a special highlight for Jean was going to Scotland, England, and Ireland where she was able to meet her extended family.
For Jean, family was one of the most important things in her life and therefore she cherished the family reunions held each summer which included many of the children and spouses, grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and extended family. Because she never knew her own grandparents, Jean’s connection to her grandchildren was extremely precious to her. She was an amazing role model for everyone who knew her, and we have been truly blessed and honored to have Mom for so many amazing years. She will be dearly missed.
Vigil Prayers will be held at January 12,2023 7 PM at St Nicholas Catholic Church, 20675-87 Avenue Langley, BC. Mass of Christian Burial January 13,2023 11 AM will be held at St Nicholas Catholic Church, Celebrant Father Nixon D’Silva. Kearney Funeral Services entrusted with arrangements.
Flowers are gratefully declined in favor of donations to Covenant House Vancouver, BC.
Link to view Jean Mary McGovern’s service
https://www.legacystreaming.com/kearney/
VIGIL PRAYERS
January 12,2023 at 7 PM
Lead by Father Nixon D’Silva
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
January 13,2023 at 11 AM
St Nicholas Catholic Church
20675 – 87 Avenue, Langley BC
CELEBRANT
Father Nixon D’Silva
EULOGY
Colin McGovern
Immediately following the Mass, please join the family for a time to share fellowship and refreshments in the St Nicholas Parish Hall. After the reception, we will proceed to the cemetery for the burial.
INTERMENT
Gardens of Gethsemani
15800-32 Avenue
Surrey, BC