July 1, 1932 - January 13, 2020
Jane Steed of Nelson, BC passed away in the company of family and friends at Mountain Lakes Seniors Community.
Jane is the daughter of Roswell and Christine Rutherford of Ottawa. She was predeceased by her husband John W. (Jack) Steed and son James Benson Steed and by her sister Christine Gorman of Amherst, Nova Scotia. Surviving is her brother John Rutherford of Ottawa and sister in law Edna Whitely (nee Steed) of Nelson, two children John Ross of Nelson and Jennifer Evelyn who resides in Edmonton, AB. Two grand children; Arianna Murphy Steed residing in Vancouver, BC and Olivia Rose Steed Ference residing in Edmonton, AB. Also mourning her passing is Shannon Murphy of Nelson; mother of Arianna and Doug Ference of Edmonton; father of Olivia.
Jane was a spirited adventurous traveler, culture vulture, singer, outdoor enthusiast and a remarkably talented domestic engineer; house wife. Jane loved to visit her brother and her sister in the East and enjoyed the vibrancy and culture of Mexico; as did her family members. A long time member of the United Church of Nelson, she sang in numerous local choirs. Jane's love of nature was met through involvement and trips with the Kootenay Mountaineering Club (partly founded by Jack Steed).
Jane's love of dance and song was met locally by the community of friends in the Dances of Universal Peace. The Tipi camp and Camp Koolaree were her favorite summertime playgrounds and organizations to direct her creativity and support. The Nelson Womens' Center also held Jane's interest to further feminist values and to show her community support.
The early days of community theatre were very important to Jane at the local Notre Dame University and related theatrical projects.
A true pioneer, social activist and lover of life, Jane will be dearly missed in the Kootenays and beyond.
The family thanks all the fine people at Mountain Lakes Seniors Community and previously Lakeview Village who cared for Jane in her final years and months making Jane as comfortable as possible. The family owes a special thanks to Naami Jenson whose friendly dedicated care helped Jane immeasurably for the past 6 years. Special thanks to Dr. Trevor Janz and Dr. Lee McKay who cared so well for Jane over these challenging years.
In lieu of flowers please make any donations to your local SPCA in memory of Jane Steed. Cards, if that is your way of expressing condolences can be mailed to Jennifer Steed at 13928 - 109 A Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5M2K3.
These will be shared with the family members.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 20th, 2020 at Nelson United Church.