In Loving Memory of Jane Bland, September 24, 1942 – July 11, 2025

Our thoughts are with Marnie, Charmian and all of the family as they rest, reflect, and adapt to life without Jane. The family did not dwell on the illness factor, so I won't either. I do want to say though that Jane's family provided exceptional support and caring for both Jane and Mike through their health challenges.

In this community, Jane was the ultimate hostess. It always amazed me how calmly she handled the vast numbers of young folks who came to the cabin with Marnie and Charmian.

For community events, Jane could be found in the cafeteria smiling as she presided over many potlucks, and served hot chocolate to the masses on Christmas Eve.

She absolutely adored her grand-daughters.

The family cabin has been pretty quiet, but we look forward to the return of the younger generations, as they make new memories on the mountain.

In Loving Memory of Jane Bland          September 24, 1942 – July 11, 2025

Surrounded by family, Jane passed peacefully on July 11, 2025, with the same love, grace, humour, and strength that defined her life.

She was dearly loved by her husband of 62 years, Michael; her daughters, Marnie and Charmian; her granddaughters, Sola and Mia; her sisters, Halcyone and Rozzy; extended family members and many close friends.

Jane was intelligent, creative, quick witted, and deeply committed to her work as a childcare services manager. She was a passionate advocate for children’s needs, first in North Vancouver and later in Penticton. She shared her love of art with family and community, and her encaustic work remains a lasting reflection of her vibrant spirit. 

Jane also found great joy in spending time with her granddaughters and took deep pride in her roles as a mother, grandmother, and lifelong companion. She was a dynamic and social person who loved connecting with friends and family in Kaleden and at the family cabin on Mount Baldy.

We will miss Jane, Mom, Amma, deeply and are grateful for the love and beauty she brought to our lives.

December 13, 2008, Baldy's 40th Anniversary - Jane and Mike on the left

 

Celebrating Mike Crowson's 80th, Jane and Mike on the left.

I will add other photos as a find them.

In her working years, Jane called me one time when she was working on a proposal for child care for families working in the orchards. I gave her some contacts, but told her that each immigrant farm worker group seemed to have their own solution. There were apple bins under the trees made into playpens, and eventually immigrants whose culture had all generations living under one roof so there was no shortage of childcare.

Jane asked me to keep posting photos of clouds, as she liked to paint them. She also floated the idea of a subscription to this blog so I could be compensated for all the work.

Dearly missed, but we have her daughters and granddaughters in our community - influenced very much by Jane.