Obituary of Christina "Jean" Skene

SKENE: Christina "Jean" (née Johnston). With sadness and heavy hearts, the family of Jean Skene announces her passing into the waiting arms of Jesus and loved ones gone before her. In her 98th year, on Sunday, January 17th, 2010 at the Brandon Regional Health Centre, she quietly left us with family by her side. Born May 31, 1911 at Kelloe, MB, she was raised by her parents, Alex and Annie Johnston (Dyler) on their dairy farm. She later left home and went to Brandon to work at the Brandon Mental Hospital where she was employed for many years as a Nurses' Aid and later in C.S.R. While working there she met and married Charles Skene in 1940. They resided in Brandon for most of their married life. Jean also made many wonderful and lasting friends while employed at the B.M.H., but Elsie Drader was her best friend who spent countless happy times with Jean and the family. Jean and Charles had three children: Anne (Ben) Cherewyk, Brandon, Margaret (Margie) Storey of Winnipeg, and Alexander (Alex) Skene of Headingley, MB. Together, they welcomed six grandchildren: Kevin (Michelle) Storey, Marie Storey, Winnipeg, Linda Cherewyk, Steven (Beckie) Cherewyk, Brandon, Lisa (Paul and son Chase) Pearson, Scott Skene of Winnipeg. Jean was also thrilled to have four great grandchildren: Cameron Storey, Amy and Ella Cherewyk and Taylor Skene. Jean is survived by daughter Anne, son Alex and their families, her youngest sister Marg Black of Brandon and sister-in-law Annie Skene of Winnipeg plus numerous nieces and nephews. Jean was predeceased by her husband Charlie in 1983 and daughter Margie in 2002. Also by one sister, three brothers and their spouses. Those who knew Jean, know how strong but gentle she was and how she put her family above all else. She was proud of each and every one of them. She loved company and was always quick to welcome them with a cup of tea and something to eat. Jean loved her pets, knitting, flowers, a game of Scrabble and spending time with family and friends at the cottage. She spoke of trips she had taken, loved to tell stories and reminisce of days gone by. At age 96 she still loved a ski-doo ride. She loved boat rides, the last one this past summer. She will be missed by all who knew her, especially her family. We will miss your physical presence and love, Mom, Gram and Great Gram. At Jean's request there was no funeral. A quiet family graveside gathering was held on Thursday, January 21st. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brandon Humane Society, 2200-17th Street East, Brandon, MB, R7A 7M6 or a charity of your choice.