Jean Ellen (Melnyk) Gunter

Obituary for Jean Ellen Gunter

Jean passed away peacefully in her home at age 84 in the early morning of December 27, 2020 with her husband Paul and son Eric holding her hands.

She leaves behind and will be missed by three fine grandchildren: Chloe, Max and Kyle.

Jean was predeceased by her beloved daughter Lara Ann who passed away in 2012 due to complications from Marfan Syndrome at age 44. Jean will forever be in the memory of her son-in-law Michael.

Jean grew up near Perth Avenue Public School and attended Humberside C. I. for her Honour Graduation Diploma in 1955. She studied the violin for years and became Concert Mistress for the Humberside orchestra.

Jean began a working career in Toronto and then following her 1963 marriage to Paul, she moved to London, Ontario for two years, while Paul completed university there. On returning to Toronto, Jean worked for two more years, until the birth of Lara Ann.

Jean became a mother in 1967 and again in 1971 with the arrival of Eric Paul. She stayed at home for 15 years, which were the happiest times of her life. She was an exemplary mother and homemaker.

Jean returned to work at the office of Sulzer Metco for 16 more years, retiring in 1998, as did Paul. She then enjoyed 14 years of retirement with her husband Paul.

Following the passing of her daughter in 2012, Jean's health began to fail. She was cared for by Paul at home until personal support workers arrived to help two months before her passing.

Jean had to deal with two serious illnesses: Parkinsonism and in the last year and a half, dementia. Please support Parkinson Canada and the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

Due to the pandemic, a celebration of her life will be held for family and friends at a later date.