August 21, 1936 - February 22, 2024
In loving memory ~
Jan Ogilvy, née Janet Van Aver, was born in Pomona, California and raised in Bellingham, Washington. She attended the University of British Columbia, where she met and married Cam Ogilvy. Cam's work as a geologist took them to remote mining towns, cities and bush camps. No matter how humble the dwelling, Jan made a cozy home. In April 1970 the family of five landed in Whitehorse, where they made friends, planted perennials and created a base from which to experience the world. They travelled extensively; Jan counted 52 trips
to Britain. She loved reading, needlepoint, attending arts events, cashmere sweaters, bridge and white wine and was a proud member of the Richard III Society. She had a photographic memory, appreciated by many when she worked at the Whitehorse Public Library and later, the Government of Yukon's inquiry desk. The family members treasure memories of Grannie, who loved nothing more than reading a book to a child, blowing out birthday candles, sipping a cappuccino at the Java Connection, and buying Yukon crafts and toys for Christmas gifts.
She was proud of her two musician sons, declaring John a miracle because of his artistic talents, and treasuring the sunroom that Alan built as an idyll for reading and doing needlepoint. Jan never faltered in appreciating the time spent in a range of activities and outings with her daughter Laurel. She loved the work of Yukon artists and musicians, especially classical, choir, and Arts in the Park concerts. Jan's prowess at bridge was emblematic of her life. No matter how bad the hand she was dealt, she never showed any emotion. Instead, her sharp analytical mind worked to figure out how to make the best of it. Her mild manner, quiet presence and humility gave no hint of her intelligence or her accomplishments.
Jan Ogilvy will be greatly missed by her children: Alan Ogilvy (Diane), Laurel Parry (Bill), John Ogilvy (Kerry "Gabriela"); grandchildren: Jack Ogilvy (Bella), Dawson Ogilvy, Martha Ogilvy (Paul), John Parry (Marit), Graydon Parry (Karelis); great-grandchildren: Freya, Forest and Finn, Hugo and Bruno, and Lucy and Leo; and brother Philip Van Aver. Her beloved husband, Cam, predeceased her in 2015.