Janet Flynn Govan

It is with great sadness I announce the passing of my Mother, Janet (Netta) Govan. Netta passed away on May 9th, 2022, 45 days shy of Her 91st birthday.

Netta fought for decades against the raveges of heart disease, macular degeneration (blindness), permanent vertigo, and lung cancer, and handled every battle as the warrior she was, never complaining, and never letting it slow her down. Netta also dealt with the tragedy of losing her husband, David Sr., and two of her sons, John (Ian), and Alistair.

Netta was born June 25, 1931 in Rutherglen Scotland to John and Charlotte Harvey. Later, her sister Anne was born. Netta married David Swan Govan, also from Rutherglen, in 1952, and soon after had their first son, John (Ian) Alexander in 1953, followed by David Jr. in 1956. In 1957 they boarded the Cruise ship Saxonia, in Liverpool, England, on-route to Halifax Canada. Upon arrival in Halifax on March 1, 1957, David Sr., Netta, Ian, and David Jr. were precessed through immigration in Pier 21. After being processed, they boarded a train bound for Toronto, were they soon found shelter and employment, and where they began a new life.

Netta often said that, immigrating to Canada was the best decision she ever made. Proof of that statement can be seen in the many, many lifelong friends she still has. Many of these friends are from the Scottish Clans Women’s Auxiliary, The Eastern Star Women’s Group, The Choir, and through working with many fine people.

Netta started her working career at Sears Head Quarters near Mutual and Gould in downtown Toronto. But her first really important employment began at the “Home Juice Company”, owned by George and Helen Haddad. The Haddad’s and there family’s have been life-long friends ever since.

The next significant employment Netta had was with “Lynn Fashions”, a ladies clothing chain of stores owned by Joe and Chippy Blimbaum. The Blimbaums and their family are also life long friends.

And the last important employment Netta had was with “Expressions International” owned by Ron Chaiken. Ron and many of the other staff are still lifelong friends.

Netta lived a very full life, she travelled extensively around the world, entertained at many retirement and senior’s homes with both The Scottish Clans and The Choir, and helped raise money for many charities. One of Netta’s finest traits was that she was always available to help anyone in need, whether it was money, time, or just to listen, she never turned her back on anyone. Ever. Ever. Ever.

In the end, all anyone ever has, is memories. I can tell you this for certain, Netta’s life was long, very full, and filled with memories to last two lifetimes. Well done Mum.

A visitation will occur Sunday, June 5, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 6191 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M2M4K4. A Memorial Service for Janet will be held Sunday, June 5, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes, 6191 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M2M 4K4.

Burial prayers will occur Monday, June 6, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Beechwood Cemetery, 7241 Jane Street, Vaughan, ON L4K 1A7.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kanejerrettnorthyork.ca for the Govan family.