Jean Beard

Jean Madeline Preston (nee Beard)

Born December 8, 1919 in St. Catharines, Ontario.

Jean Preston passed away peacefully in the loving company of her children on April 15, 2017 in her 98 ^th year in Ottawa. Beloved wife and best friend of Col. Ross Preston, her high school sweetheart and devoted husband. Ross passed away in October 2010, he was the love of her life and husband for almost 64 years. Proud and loving mother of Nancy and Major John (Lynn) and cherished grandmother of Graham and Cameron Preston. Predeceased by parents Minnie (Dittrick) and Frederick W. Beard, her sister and brother-in-law Mary and Frank (Beau) Coy and nephew Jim Coy. Survived by nephews Frank and Richard Coy of St. Catharines and their families, and sister-in -law and brother-in-law Betty and Ken W. Preston and family Stuart, David and Elizabeth of Toronto. Jean grew up in St. Catharines with a large extended family with whom she always remained close. From 1918 to 2001, her family owned a cottage property on Lake Ontario. Summers were spent there with family, friends, her children and eventually grandchildren. Family and her home were always the centre of her life. Jean was an intelligent, capable, independent, beautiful woman with great taste and style. A somewhat outspoken force who remained true to her values and beliefs to the end. She worked at the Bank of Commerce as Secretary to the Manager before her marriage in 1946 and excelled at accounting and investing which stood her in good stead all her life. She had a great memory for detail and was relied on as the family historian. She loved to celebrate birthdays, holidays and to decorate the house beautifully, especially for Christmas. She was very generous to her family and a loyal friend, never forgetting a birthday, anniversary, etc. She and Ross had longtime friends in the military community from various postings. Jean belonged to the military wives association, the May Court and did charitable canvassing work over the years. In their retirement, Jean and Ross enjoyed travel. They toured Canada, from coast to coast, the British Isles, Greece, across Europe, Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Caribbean, Bermuda and many American states by air, ship, train and bus. On their return, Jean created wonderful albums of photos and keepsakes. Hers was a life well lived and she will be missed. he family would like to express their immense gratitude and thanks to the wonderful staff of Carlingwood Retirement Community, and to Pushpa, a truly special, loyal, patient, compassionate caregiver and friend who, for over six years was dedicated to providing care to Mum and support for our family. Much appreciation to all for your patient, excellent care. Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held. If so desired, memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Society or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.