Nancy-Jean Isabel Deane

Nancy-Jean leaves behind her devoted husband of 55 years, Michael; her beloved son Rob, and daughter-in-law Sharlene; her four cherished grandchildren, of whom she was so very proud, Kaylie (Christian), Patrick (Zukhro), Shaun and Kara; and the special great-grandchildren she was ecstatic to welcome in February, Archer and Bennett. Nancy-Jean is also missed by her dear sister-in-law Donna Neilson; her nephews Allan (Allie) and Christopher (Linda), and her nieces Lindsay (Brian), Carolyn (Christopher), Maryse (David), Suzanne (James), and their families. So many friends from throughout Nancy-Jean's life, and from all the places where she found joy - North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Coquitlam and Hornby Island, among others - will also miss her dearly.

It is of some solace to those she leaves behind for now that Nancy-Jean has been reunited for eternity with her precious daughter Erin, who died too young at the age of 19 in 1995; her parents Walter and Jeanne Neilson; her brothers John Neilson (2020) and Bill Neilson (2025); and her sister-in-law Coline Neilson (2026).

Nancy-Jean's family meant the world to her, especially as it expanded over the years with grandchildren and then great-grandchildren. She loved all of us with all her heart, and most importantly, she made sure we knew it. Her relationship with each of us was unique and special because she took care to make it that way. We loved her, and we know she loved us.

Nancy-Jean was a respected and beloved teacher of several generations of elementary school students at Chartwell Elementary, Hollyburn Elementary, Cypress Park Elementary, and West Bay Elementary in West Vancouver. Her students and the school communities meant everything to her, and enriched her life. Few things made her prouder than following the paths her young students forged over the years as they left her classroom and went out into the world. Nancy-Jean was a teacher through and through.

We will miss you forever, Nancy-Jean, Mom and Nana, but we know that you are always near.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to Cystic Fibrosis Canada at cysticfibrosis.ca would be sincerely appreciated.