ANDERSEN, Jean Marie
April 3, 1950 - January 8, 2015
Jean Marie Andersen of Lethbridge, beloved daughter of Nora Andersen and the late John Andersen, passed away peacefully at Chinook Regional Hospital on January 8, 2015, at the age of 64 years. Jean was born in Drumheller, Alberta, on April 3, 1950. She lived with her family in the Danish community of Dalum, Alberta, until 1970, when she and her parents moved to Airdrie and then Calgary. In 2006, Jean and Nora moved to Lethbridge. Over the years, Jean enthusiastically attended numerous educational programs, developing close friendships with her mentors and teachers along the way. Mrs. Hands, her first teacher in Drumheller, was never forgotten. In Calgary, Jean attended classes at various locations where she took computer classes and did handicrafts. Her classes at Mount Royal College were the highlight of her education; she was very proud of the bursaries she earned there for her achievements. More recently, she spent many happy hours with Karen Charlton at DaCapo in Lethbridge, going to coffee, attending events in the city, making pickles or jam, and completing beautiful craft projects. She enjoyed photography, outings, picnics in the park, going to parties and out for coffee. For many years, she was a dedicated Calgary Flames fan who also enjoyed movies and puzzles. Jean loved to travel. In addition to summer camping trips, she went on several cruises with her parents and loved stopping in at different ports of call. She travelled to Denmark as well as San Francisco, Jamaica, New York, Quebec, and Alaska. Jean loved spending time with family and it was within travelling and family where Jean found her fondest memories. Jean loved and was loved by many in her life – her mom and dad, her extended family and the many people who came to know her over the years through her participation in classes and the organizations of which she was a part. Her grandmother, Marie Jensen, was her inspiration. During the past four years, her L’Arche family became a very dear part of her life. All who knew Jean will remember her for her happy nature and her willing smile. Besides her loving mother, Nora, Jean is survived by her sister, Phyllis (Lynden) Hutchinson of Coaldale, brother, Raymond (Lynn Alden) Andersen of Vancouver, BC nieces, Karen (Keith) Gilchrist of St. Albert and Sarah Andersen of Vancouver nephew, Geoffrey (Sarah Charney) Hutchinson of Ft. Langley, BC Great-nephew, Quinn Gilchrist Great-nieces, Maya Gilchrist; Cecelia, Madeleine, and Johanna Hutchinson. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM, on Saturday, January 17, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, with Pastors Harold Schilk and Ruth Preston Schilk, officiating. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial donations to DaCapo at Lethbridge Family Services , 1107 2 Ave. A N., Lethbridge, AB or L’Arche Lethbridge, 240 12C St. N., Lethbridge, AB, T1H 2M7 Send condolences at www.mbfunerals.com.