Obituaries

JANE HAMILTON

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Valerie Jane Hamilton, 70, on August 25, 2023, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Jane leaves behind her husband, Greg Hamilton; daughter, Sarah (Marcelo) Hamilton, and grandchildren Carter and Eliza Hamilton; brother, Ian Willis, and sister, Liz (Tony) Willis. Also mourning her loss are sisters-in-law Sandy (John, deceased) Hamilton; Carol Ann (Don) Halstead; Lourdes (Larry) Kelly; Andrea (Jim, deceased) Nowosad; and several nieces and nephews. Jane was preceded in death by her mother, Jean Willis; father, Frederick Willis; stepmother, Annie Willis; and son, Christopher Hamilton.

Jane loved to spend time with family and to travel. She especially enjoyed her yearly trips to Naples, Florida, with Greg, which was the highlight of the year for her. She was particularly delighted to reunite with cousins Sharon and Tanya during two of the Florida visits. Although no longer able to travel over the last few years, Jane enjoyed her regular visits with Sarah, Marcelo, Carter and Eliza; daily texts with Sarah; Zoom calls and emails with Ian and Liz; and regular calls with sister-in-law Sandy. Jane was also an avid reader and enjoyed discussing her literary discoveries with friends and family.

Those who knew Jane best will never forget her affection for animals and concern for their welfare. From her early days “rescuing” frogs at the lake, to feeding the wild baby bunnies under the steps, to serving as the devoted “mother” of a series of beloved cats, most recently Parker and Caesar, Jane professed and demonstrated a love of animals all her life.

The family would like to thank the many doctors and staff at CancerCare Manitoba who cared for Jane over the years, including Dr. Ralph Wong, her principal oncologist, and Dr. Joel Gingerich and the nurses and staff of the palliative care team.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or an animal charity of your choice. A comprehensive list of animal charities is available at canadahelps.com.

There will be cremation, and interment will be arranged at a later date.