MCDONALD, Jean Ann McDonald

It is with deep sadness that Jean’s family announces her passing on February 2, 2026. Jean will be lovingly remembered by daughter, Linda (Victor Holysh) and their children, David Holysh (Hwanhee Cho) and Catherine Holysh; son, Tim (Jairo Jordon) as well as her sister-in-law, Josephine, brother-in-law, Ian, and many nieces and nephews. Jean was predeceased by her husband, Dave in November 2025 and her younger brother, Bill McPheeters in 2020.

Jean was born in 1933 in Drumheller to Duncan Bruce and Margaret May McPheeters. She grew up on a farm in Rumsey before the family moved to Calgary. Jean married Dave McDonald in 1954 and they were married for 71 years. Dave’s work opportunities saw them live in various locations in Alberta, BC and Saskatchewan in the early years of their marriage. They moved to Australia in 1965 and lived in Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane, then London and Rome. After Dave retired in 1995, they lived in Brisbane and North Vancouver.

Jean made the best of every move and “bloomed where she was planted”. Jean enjoyed entertaining and was a gracious hostess. She belonged to several bridge and Mah Jong groups and was involved in many newcomers’ groups and hospitality committees for spouses who attended oil and gas conferences in Australia.

The family would like to thank the residents and staff at Westerleigh Parc, where Jean and David lived for over eleven years, for their friendship and kindness. The family would also like to thank Ewa and Jola, Jean and Dave’s morning caregivers for several years, as well as the caregivers from Proof of Care, Hero Home Care, and the VCH palliative team for their care and support during Jean’s final months.

A funeral service will be held at West Vancouver United Church on Sunday, March 29 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Alzheimer Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Services