Obituary of Jan English

It was a beautiful spring day on May 14th, 2021 when Jan English peacefully passed away in Peterborough at the age of 71 with her husband and daughter by her side. She will always be remembered by her loving husband Ken; her daughter Amanda; her sister Kathy (Bob) Dustan; and her many family and friends. She was predeceased by her parents Horace ("Bud") and Marie Moses.

She was born in Bowmanville on December 20th, 1949 and spent most of her life living in the area. After graduating from nursing school in Oshawa, she worked as a Registered Nurse for 36 years, specializing in mental health. She met Ken in 1980 and they spent the next 41 years happily together, as true partners in life and best friends. A few years later, her daughter Amanda came along. Jan was a loving and devoted wife and mother. Jan recently said, "I would like to thank my husband and daughter for all that they have added to my life. They have made me happy and I enjoy every minute with them. We have good times together and they both make me proud. I love them dearly and I know they love me too."

Jan also enjoyed travelling and exploring new places, especially family vacations and cruises. Jan loved her pets (particularly her cats) and also liked many hobbies (crafts, knitting and quilting) and volunteering (at the hospital and the church). Jan recently said, "When I think about my life, I have enjoyed all of my family, friends, and hobbies. I enjoyed my time with the church and its activities. I enjoyed volunteering at the hospital and sewing. I have always enjoyed crafts and making things. I enjoyed my many special birthdays and vacations. When I think about what I enjoy most, I have enjoyed my time with family and friends. Right now, I enjoy spending time with Ken and Amanda, my home on the lake, and just relaxing. I have slowed down quite a bit but I never really stop. I enjoy being busy and productive."

Jan has been an inspiration when it comes to all aspects of life. She accomplished and overcame so much with grace, kindness, and humour. She was always optimistic and found happiness and joy throughout her entire life, even during her medical setbacks. When asked about the meaning of life, Jan said, "I would like to think it is joy and happiness for everyone. At the end of the day, if you find your joy then you have found meaning for yourself… no matter what that may look like." She will be warmly remembered for her love, compassion, strength, and positive outlook on life.

The family wishes to extend their sincerest gratitude to all the staff who work with the Integrated Stroke Rehab Unit at Peterborough Regional Health Centre, and a special thanks to Julie, Sherri, and Dr. Wu. Thank you for your care, kindness, and compassion.

Resting at the Northcutt Elliott Funeral Home. Due to current restrictions, a family funeral service (by invitation only) will be celebrated at Northcutt Elliott Funeral Home in Bowmanville on Tuesday May 18th at 12 noon, with interment at Bowmanville Cemetery. Those wishing to view the service virutally please follow the link provided below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVq6dhNr-AA

If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to Lakeridge Health Bowmanville, Diabetes Canada, YWCA Peterborough Haliburton, or the Canadian Cancer Society. 

A few final words from Jan... when asked what advice she would give about life, she said: "The advice I would give is to find your passion. Try different things until something strikes you as fun and something that you enjoy… then go for it with gusto. Once you’ve found your passion, then be the best that you can be.

A few other pieces of advice:

- Treat others as you would like to be treated.
- Always be kind and supportive to others.
- Keep both yourself and your surroundings clean and tidy; this will keep you organized.
- Respect your elders and all others.
- Help the less fortunate.
- It is important to have good friends.
- Make a difference for yourself and others.
- Don’t take yourself too seriously. Smile and be happy."