Hiroko (Jean) Ikeda

Hiroko (Jean) Ikeda passed away peacefully at home Thursday, April 4, 2024, at the age of 97.  She is lovingly remembered by her sister-in law Haruko Ikeda, multiple nieces and nephews and Maureen, Shelagh, Kerry, Joe, Kelly, Mary Beth, Eileen Toole and their families.  She is predeceased by her parents Gunjiro and Ayano Ikeda, and her siblings and extended family Martha Akune, Yoshiye Nakata, Terry Savage, Mariko Sato, Roy Ikeda, Setsuko Matsugi, P.J. and Pat Toole, Tom Toole, and Jay Toole.

Hiroko was born March 27, 1927, in Vancouver, British Columbia.  As a young girl, she lived in Surrey until they were evacuated to Raymond.  As an adult, Hiroko moved to Vancouver to work and returned several summers to Raymond to help with the family farm.  In 1958, Hiroko found an opportunity and accepted employment in Calgary with the Tooles, a prominent Real Estate family.  Hiroko never felt like an employee but always considered the Toole’s as her own family.  She was known lovingly as Jeanie to them all.  She stayed with the family until her retirement in 1998.

In May 2017, Hiroko moved to Trinity Lodge where she remained until her passing.  She loved the staff and made a multitude of new friends.  Jean and her best friend Mildred were constantly together and sharing friendship throughout the lodge.

Hiroko created a unique and adventurous life and was always very independent. She enjoyed painting, petit point, knitting, crocheting, and was always generous in sharing and teaching others.  She was a huge Calgary Stampeder and Toronto Blue Jay fan and would often give up a night with friends to put on her favorite team jersey and watch the game.

She was most proud of all her travels whether with the Calgary Kotobuki Society, the Tooles, or with family.  She traveled all over the United States and Canada, most notably, Florida, South Dakota, San Franciso, Hawaii and especially her three trips to Japan. 

The family would like to take this opportunity to express their appreciation to the Management and Staff at Trinity Lodge for their excellent care and support.  There were so many times, it was just comforting to know she was in such a safe environment and well taken care of.

Special Thank you to the Toole family who took Jeanie into their hearts and made her part of their family.

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