VARNAI, Jean Marion

Jean passed away peacefully at the Village of Riverside Glen, Guelph on Sunday, March 6, 2016.  She was predeceased by her loving husband of 45 years, Oscar.  Jean is survived and missed by her children  Peter (Sherri-Lynn) and Melinda (Brent Drewry).  Lovingly missed by her dear grandchildren Parker, Taylor, Adam and Grace.    The family expresses deep gratitude to the caregivers and nurses at Riverside Glen who treated Jean like family for the past 8 years. Jean was born in Emsdale, ON to Italian immigrants,Bruno Giuseppi Bonazza and Maria Gracia (nee Fragomeli).  The youngest of three children, the family eventually made Huntsville their home.  There, Jean developed her quiet love of needlepoint, reading, wildflowers and gardening.  She moved to Orillia in the mid 1950’s to start her administrative career and there found love.  After marrying Oscar in 1962, the couple moved to Guelph to raise their family. Jean is fondly remembered by many for her years of service at the former Guelph YMCA on Speedvale Ave.  She enjoyed people and always had a kind word of encouragement to share.  Jean was a nurturer.  She spent countless hours in her gardens where her special touch and attention gave life to beautiful, healthy flowers and vegetables.  She tended to her family in the same manner, providing kindness, patience and wisdom to help her family flourish. She grew a resilient, strong family and took exceptional pride in her bounty. Although Alzheimers stole Jean’s precious memories in her final years, her love and strength willforever remain in our memory. Friends may call at the GILCHRIST CHAPEL – McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street, Guelph on Wednesday, March 9 (from 6 – 9 p.m.)   A memorial Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Rosary Church, 178 Emma St. on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society – the charity that Jean was quite involved with - would be appreciated.  We invite you to leave your condolences and donations online at www.gilchristchapel.com