GIBSON, Jean - Long time resident of Kelowna, B.C., passed away February 27, 2011.

Jean, who began life July 10, 1930 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, was the third child of Danish immigrants, John and Jenny Nielsen. The family moved to Victoria when she was 7. She became a gifted pianist and organist and by the time she was 15, was training on the pipe organ at Victoria's Christ Church Cathedral as well as playing the organ at her family's church, Grace Lutheran. In Kelowna, she had been organist at St. Paul's United Church for many years and was in demand as an accompanist for choral groups and soloists.

Jean was cherished mother to Art and wife, Debbie, beloved sister to Margaret Norman and brother, Jack (Surrey), treasured aunt to Dorothy Stewart (Los Angeles), Joan Kupchak (Calgary), Les Norman (Ft. St. John), Bob Norman (Kelowna) and Barbara Norman (Kelowna).

Jean will be remembered by many local people from her years of work as Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court of British Columbia, Kelowna Registry office. At her retirement in 1987, she was made an honorary member in good standing of the Kelowna Bar Association. She loved activities that challenged her mind and for years, played bridge with friends, completed complex crossword puzzles, and lately discovered the fun of Rummikub! In years past, she was a golfer and traveller with her late friend Dodie. After retirement, she presided at numerous Kelowna weddings as a Justice of the Peace.

The family is appreciative of the heartwarming support from friends, staff at Cottonwoods, where she lived until December, and medical personnel at Kelowna General Hospital.

Jean wished to thank those who contributed so much to her happiness over the years. She requested that only a quiet family gathering be held after she was gone.

If you have remembrances to share with the family, please sign the guest book at www.mem.com.

Jean loved animals. If you like, make a donation to your local SPCA, or the charity of your choice – or just help somebody today.

Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC.

• It was so nice to meet Jean at Cottonwoods. I was glad to clean her room.
  
  God bless you all at this time.
  
  Debbie Armstrong. Mar 6, 2011
• I have fond memories of Jean and Dodie who were also good friends of my Mom, Gisela - she cleaned their homes, befriending them along the way. Gisela passed away 8 years ago. They are gone now, but never forgotten, forever in my thoughts.
  
  Evelyn Zellmann Mar 6, 2011

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