Jean Isabella Elvers passed away peacefully the morning of January 13, 2019, at Extendicare in Red Deer at the age of 99. She is survived by her son, Terry, his wife Joanne and grandson Parker Elvers who currently reside in Virginia. Also, she is survived by many nieces and nephews (Kathy Miller, Rena Lee, Russell Braham, Jimmy Craig, Amie Lynn Craig, Marjorie Craig, Dale Craig, Gary Craig, Dennis Craig) and their families, as well as her sister Maisie Pickering. She is predeceased by her husband Jack Elvers, her brothers Jack, Wilbert and Alton, and her sister Edna. As Jean was well-known for her ability to create lasting friendships, she is also survived by many dear friends including Ron and Gloria Vollmin, Florence Johnson, as well as Calvin and Mavis Huhtalla.

Jean was born on April 30, 1919, in Rossburn Manitoba, the second-oldest of six children born to May and John Craig. She had three brothers and two sisters.

Jean wed John (Jack) Elvers in St. Catherine’s, Ontario on Jan 2, 1942. They were married for an incredible 64 years and were only separated by Jack’s passing. Jean and Jack had one child, Terry.

After she was married, she lived in Ontario, before moving to Red Deer late in 1942 when Jack was assigned there for basic training in the army. They lived in Red Deer for many years where they, along with life-long friends Al and Gwen Hewlett, built and ran “Red Deer Seed”. They left only briefly in the early 1970s (spending three years in Rycroft, Alberta) before returning to Red Deer. Upon their return, they founded Choice Homes and built single-family homes until they retired.

Jean loved her family, friends, and community. Her sense of community was evident as an active member of Gaetz United Church for many decades. Jean was instrumental in starting the “Young Couples” ministry (which later became AOTS [As One That Serves]) at the church. She worked at countless bake sales, rummage sales, clothing drives, and helped immensely with the children’s ministry and the children’s choir. She was a valuable member, and always considered Gaetz her home church – no matter where she was.

In addition to her work in the church, Jean also served her community as a loyal member of the Order of the Royal Purple (Elks Lodge). As Captain of the Drill Team for many decades, she was a tireless worker for the lodge and was loved by all. In addition to her work with the Drill Team, she was involved in hosting the National Convention, made innumerable hospital visits to her “sisters” and volunteered for a multitude of events. To recognize her contribution and service, she was made an honorary “Honored Royal Lady” by the Lodge. She continued to serve the lodge until she was physically unable.

Jean was an amazing wife, mother, and sister; furthermore, she was a friend to innumerable people. She was an inspiration to so many, and a guiding influence on countless lives. She will be missed and her passing leaves a hole which only she was able to fill.

Service will be held at Gaetz United Church at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday April 30, 2019 with burial to follow at Red Deer Cemetery.

• Date : 2019-01-13
• Location : Red Deer