Stephanie Mary Mann

Stephanie Mary Mann, age 67, passed away peacefully on June 8th, 2024, in Victoria, BC. Born on January 10, 1957, in Toronto, Ontario, Stephanie was a dedicated and accomplished woman who served her country with pride and distinction.

Stephanie grew up in Toronto and graduated from Senator O’Connor College School in 1975. Driven by a deep sense of duty and inspired by her father's service in the British Merchant Marine during WWII, she embarked on a remarkable career in the Canadian Armed Forces.

She joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Primary Reserve, where she served for 13 years as an Administrative Clerk and later as an Admin Officer. In 1988, Stephanie transitioned to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), becoming a Maritime Surface and Sub-Surface (MARS) officer with a sub-specialization in computer programming, aiming to advance naval command and control systems as she had done in her civilian career.

Stephanie began her naval journey with basic training in Chilliwack, BC, in early 1989, followed by six months of French language training in St. Jean, QC. She commenced naval training at HMCS VENTURE in Esquimalt, BC, in 1990, sailing in HMC Ships MACKENZIE, THUNDER, and QU’APPELLE to complete the MARS program. In 1991, she moved to Halifax for the Naval Operations course and began her first ship assignment as a Bridge Watchkeeper (BWK) in training in HMCS PROTECTEUR, later serving on HMCS GATINEAU, where she achieved her BWK status.

After Stephanie had completed her Director (D)-level training as a programmer, and started to work in that field, the RCN decided to cease this sub-specialization. Despite this set-back, Stephanie was posted to Toronto, ON where she was able to contribute significantly to the development of computer wargame exercises at the Canadian Forces College. These wargame exercises would help prepare senior officers to lead at the operational level.

Returning to the Navy, Stephanie served in Esquimalt as a Maritime Operations Centre watchkeeper and Fleet staff member. She then worked with the Naval Staff in Ottawa before concluding her distinguished service in Halifax. She retired in 2008, after 33 years of dedicated service in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Stephanie is survived by her beloved daughter, Kaitlyn, and her five sisters (Teresa, Bernadette, Barbara, Paula and Michele). Her legacy is marked by her professionalism, loyalty, and dedication. She balanced her demanding career with the challenges of being a single mother, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and family alike.

Stephanie Mary Mann will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to her country, her pioneering spirit, and the deep love she had for her family and colleagues. She leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication that will be cherished by all who knew her.