Mary Jean Borovijs (McDermid)
Jeannie passed away peacefully the morning of January 6, 2020 with family at her bedside. Born on January 24, 1957 and raised in the Ottawa Valley, she moved to Toronto to work at Sick Kids’ Hospital. She loved her short career, first as a secretary, then accountant, and was also a volunteer cook at Houselink for a number of years. She was fiercely proud of her son Tyler, a graduate of University of Toronto and OISE, and his career as a math and science educator.
Survived by loving son Tyler Borovijs (Kelly Miller), sisters Claire Poirier (Camil), Harriet Hodgins (John), sister-in-law June. Predeceased by parents Alec and Lulu McDermid; brothers Bob (Alice), Campbell (Beatrice) and Douglas; former spouse Yancy Borovijs. Fondly remembered by nieces and nephews Nancy, Bob, David, Brian, Alexander, Douglas, Laura, Cora Lee, Anne, Darlene, Nancy, Campbell, Linda, Ted, Jacqueline, Marc; and by cousins Russell, Elda, Gary, Lloyd, Lynn, Ken, Richard, Karen, Denise, Terry, Alan, Jeff, Tim, Ron, Don and Euretta.
Jeannie loved life and its simple pleasures – a cup of Tim’s (three milks, no sugar), a long walk, listening to music, sharing wine with friends, and socializing. Her face would light up with pleasure when family or friends came to visit.
Jeannie faced major health challenges with raw courage, perseverance and dry wit. A tough character who brooked no fools, she was generous, game for adventure and full of life.
As a carrier of Lupus and Hughes syndrome (antiphospholipid syndrome, or APS), the effects of dozens of strokes gradually reduced her ability to enjoy her favourite activities. Jeannie’s world became smaller as her physical restrictions and speech impediments grew. It was gratifying to know her spirits were lifted by the company of family who stayed by her side through her final week of care in hospital and hospice.
The family thanks staff and volunteers at The O’Neill Centre for Jeannie’s long-term care. Heartfeult thanks also to staff at Toronto Western Hospital and Kensington Hospice for recent care and support, and to Dr. Melissa Li for enabling our transfer to Hospice for our family to say their final goodbyes.
A memorial for Jeannie will be held in the Ottawa Valley in summer 2020. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Kensington Hospice or Lupus Canada. Condolences to the family may be offered through www.abc-toronto.com. “Don’t weep at my grave, for I am not there. I’ve a date with a butterfly to dance in the air. I’m singing in the sunshine, wild and free; playing tag with the wind while I’m waiting for thee.” (Sharon A. Bryington).
Offer Condolence for the family of Mary Jean Borovijs (McDermid)
STEPHEN MILLER
Never had the pleasure of meeting her, but she raised an absolute gentleman who I am privileged to know. Rest in peace.
Kelli-Anne King
So sorry for your loss Tyler. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Cherish all the memories that you made together.
Tony/Bea Molloy
Our deep and heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your dear Mother. May she R.I.P. May you be strengthened by many happy and fond memories.
Karen Combden
Tyler & Family
I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your mother. My heart goes out to you in this trying time and may you, and your loved ones find the strength to get through this together.
Sincere condolences.
Roz
Tyler, I am so sorry for your loss. You always spoke so highly of your mother. My thoughts are with you through this difficult time.
Maureen
Tyler, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Hang on to the memories and know your mother would be proud of the person you are today.
Desiree and Christopher
Tyler,
We are saddened to hear about the loss of your mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Kelly and the rest of your extended family. Hold your memories and allow them to keep you warm at night.
Harriett Alma Hodgins
Tyler, my heart goes out to you, your Mom truly loved you. We met when you were a very small boy, I am your Mom’s oldest sister Harriett Alma. You are in my prayers.
Jim and Juanita Miller
Tyler our deepest and heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your dearest mother. We never got the pleasure of meeting her but she sounded like a lovely Woman. She would be so proud of who you are today. Cherish all your memories and know she is always with you.
Linda Poirier
Tyler, we are so sorry for your loss. We will miss our coffee visits; may heaven have bottomless mugs of Tim’s for her. Please know that Michael, Nina and I will always be here for you.
Campbell McDermid
Tyler, so sorry for your loss. Your mom was an extraordinary woman who lived life as full as she could. My fondest memories of her were her driving me and my sister through the back roads of WhiteLake like we were in the Indy 500. I loved it by my sister was ready to pass out from fear. Later I went to visit her in Toronto and she showed me the city. She will be missed. Cam