Jane Amy Ballantyne (Ferguson)
It is with great sadness and love that we announce Jane’s passing on January 20th at the age of 72. Our beloved wife, mother and grandmother will be remembered by her husband of 47 years, Ted; children Amy (John), Heather, Teddy and grandson Owen. She is also survived by her brothers, Rod (Fran), Dan and Bill (Dianne), along with a nephew, niece and four great-nephews/nieces. She was predeceased by her parents, Graham and Betty (Tarzwell) Ferguson.
Jane lived a selfless, loving and meaningful life. Growing up in Fergus, Waterloo and Toronto, Jane was a talented figure skater and a keen student. One of her great joys was playing her bag pipes. She played with both the Fergus Pipe Band and the Peel Region Police Pipe Band. A graduate of the University of Waterloo, Jane was blessed with a fulfilling and diverse career. After giving birth to twin daughters and a son, Jane and Ted’s family blossomed in Waterloo. After a memorable period of part-time work at Ontario Seed Home Hardware, Jane accepted a position at Mutual Life. There, Jane thrived as a trainer for many years. Jane found new passions and conquered new challenges after retiring at age 55. Jane and her husband were fortunate enough to travel the world. She fulfilled a life-long goal of attaining her Master’s degree in Theology at the University of Toronto’s Emmanuel College and found her greatest joy in volunteering. Jane happily gave time to many causes. She found volunteering with the pastoral care service at Grand River and Freeport Hospitals to be a particularly meaningful opportunity. Jane was completing her volunteer training at Lisaard/Innisfree House Hospice when she was diagnosed with advanced stage pancreatic cancer.
Jane was a bright light that will never be forgotten. Her colourful nature, infectious smile and sincere kindness touched countless lives. Her family will forever feel her love, guidance and unconditional support. We love you so much, Mom.
We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Innisfree House for making Jane’s final days so peaceful.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Jane’s life will take place on Sunday, February 5th, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, 2500 Kossuth Rd., Cambridge. Drop in to share your favourite memories of Jane with friends and loved ones. As you dress for the gathering, please remember that butterflies like bright colours: so did Jane.
Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society; Innisfree House ; or to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada .
Messages and condolences may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com. Please visit Jane's obituary notice on Facebook.