Jean Berkeley Rae

Died at home in Vancouver on June 29, 2021. Jean was born in Nelson on January 17, 1941. Her father’s work as a mining engineer took the family to mining communities throughout BC. Jean finished high school in Hope and continued to UBC where she earned her Nursing degree, made lifelong friendships, and met her husband, James A. Bud Rae. Bud and Jean were married in Nelson on November 30, 1963, and made their homes in Pine Point NWT, Edmonton, Rossland, and finally Vancouver. She enjoyed city life and was truly grateful for all Vancouver had to offer. Jean loved working as a public health nurse, and following the move to Vancouver she returned to UBC to obtain a Master's degree. Her studies were interrupted while she battled breast cancer, and her experience as a cancer survivor steered the direction of her research; she wrote her thesis for her M.A. (Adult Education) on support groups. Before retirement she worked in health promotion positions with the Youville Residence and Hope Cancer Health Centre. For many years she was an active member of the Vancouver Quilters’ Guild and Greater Vancouver Mining Women’s Association. She loved to bring the family together for special occasions and everyone looked forward to special dinners and breakfasts at grandma’s house. She is survived by her husband; brother Bill (Maili) Thompson of Bakersfield CA; children Doug Rae of Squamish, Sandra (Maurice) Blitz of Kelowna, and Darcie (Jason) Light of Richmond; and grandsons Nicholas, Andrew, James, David, Michael and Evan.

Donations to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation or Alzheimer Society of B.C. would be appreciated.

For an invite to an online celebration of life, please email celebratejeanrae@gmail.com