A model of compassion and unconditional love, Jan Zickler departed peacefully while surrounded by her loving husband Paul and her four children Nicole, Todd, Julia, and Paul.
She was born Janet Patricia Smith in 1946 on the northern banks of Lake Superior, in the city of Fort William, Ontario, now known as Thunder Bay. Born to Eileen Elizabeth Smith and Ernest Lorne Acre Smith, she is lovingly remembered by her sister Frances, her brother Doug and their families.
In childhood Jan developed a taste for adventure and a love of the outdoors while camping with family and enjoying canoe trips with Canadian Girls in Training (CGIT). Later she obtained a nursing degree, and she worked at St. Joseph's Hospital in London, Ontario while her high-school sweetheart Paul attended the University of Western Ontario.
Jan married Paul a year later and joined him at UWO, where they completed their B.A. and M.D. degrees respectively. Jan and Paul's adventurous spirits then carried them to the Lower Mainland of B.C., where Jan raised four children and provided unwavering support to Paul's career as a physician.
She enjoyed sharing spanish coffees with supportive friends and taking part in many hiking, camping and kayaking adventures that provided laughter, challenge, and wonderful memories.
To her community in Crescent Beach, Jan was known for her welcoming smile, shining eyes, and contagious laughter. She was a source of light for many. Her door was always open, and her home was a sanctuary of listening and support.
She also established strong family roots for her four children, their partners and seven grandchildren, for which they are endlessly grateful.
For many years, Jan was an active member of the Crescent United Church. Later she embarked on a deepening spiritual journey, with study and active practice of many different traditions that led her to be even more peaceful, loving and joyful.
She shared her generous spirit through community endeavors including at the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation and the Elders program at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Center, where she was a founding member of the Silver Harmony Drummers that celebrates First Nations culture.
Jan and her family had the honor of celebrating her life together before her passing. They lovingly shared tears and laughter while watching hours of video tributes sent by family, friends and acquaintances. Jan appreciated the gift of being able to reflect on the many beautiful connections she enjoyed over seven decades of life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation in Jan Zickler's name to the Downtown Eastside Women's Center at https://dewc.ca/ or the BC Cancer Agency Surrey at https://bccancerfoundation.com/ways-donate/gift-memory.
During her final four years of life Jan received incredible, personal medical care. She asked to send special thanks to Drs. Paul Klimo, Charles Scudamore, Bal Johal and Bernice Brits.