In Loving Memory of Jean “Mom” Beishuizen (ALLEN)

Jean Beishuizen, our beloved Mom, passed away peacefully on April 19/2024, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and a remarkable ability to make everyone feel at home,  this side of the rainbow. Born on September 27, 1931, to her parents, the late Robert and Hannah Graham, Mom entered the world with a mischievous twinkle in her eye,  a beautiful smile, warm Swedish cheekbones and an Irish spirit that never dimmed.

Growing up as the youngest of three siblings, the late Johnny Graham and  brother Jimmy, Mom had the good fortune of being surrounded by protective brothers who ensured she was always the belle of the ball, fending off admirers left and right. With her timeless beauty and youthful glow, Mom often joked that she had discovered the secret to eternal youth—cheap but effective Noxzema, applied liberally and with Irish charm.

In her youth, Mom found love with the late John Lloyd Allen, and together they embarked on the adventure of parenthood, blessing the world with a brood of children who inherited her zest for life and knack for throwing unforgettable celebrations through hard work and effort. Her adventures included her beautiful daughters Gloria LeMoal(Wayne), Judy Frey(Gary), Carol Allen , Joy Zuck(Dale), Leslie Fraser(Hugh), her one and only son, Bradley Allen, and her youngest Roberta Sekela(Matt)  Many took jobs at 14 so that they could order those live Sea Monkeys from the back of Archie comic books.  From St. Patrick’s Day shindigs to Christmas extravaganzas and Easter Egg hunts, Mom’s creativity knew no bounds, and her children fondly remember the magic she infused into every holiday and birthday celebration.

Mom’s professional journey led her to Eaton’s and later to St. Mary’s High School in Prince Albert, where she became known as “Ms. B” to students who sought her out during lunch hours for her attentive ear and sage advice. Her capacity for listening and offering comfort was matched only by her unwavering sense of humor and infectious smile . She would light up the room!

Fifty years ago, Mom found love again with the dashing bush pilot, John “Bushy” Beishuizen, and together they soared through life’s adventures, from Prince Albert to Medicine Hat and finally settling in the Abbotsford/Chilliwack area. Along the way, Mom touched the hearts of countless grandchildren, who loved their Nanny so much, many loving nieces and nephews, and extended family members with her warmth and kindness. Nevermind the good friends she met along the way that would always have her ear during Happy Hour.

In the midst of life’s late joys, Mom also experienced recent loss, including the passing of her eldest granddaughter, Lisa Byers(LeMoal) earlier this year. Yet, through it all, Mom remained a beacon of strength and resilience, her spirit undimmed by life’s challenges. And she had many !

With a martini in hand and a twinkle in her eye, Mom now entertains her loved ones in the heavens above, surrounded by laughter, love, and the eternal warmth of her Irish spirit. Though she may be gone from our sight, her presence remains palpable, a guiding light and guardian angel watching over those she loved so dearly.

We, her husband Bushy(John), her children, grandchildren, and extended family, are grateful for the gift of Mom’s love and the beauty she brought into our lives. As we raise a glass in her honor, we know that she is with us always, forever our angel, forever in our hearts. Mom, until we meet again. A Celebration of Life will be held later this summer in Prince Albert. Details to follow.

Your Family

 

• Date : 2024-04-19
• Location : Chilliwack, BC