Obituary of Jennifer Ross (Sherjan)

Jennifer Sarah Ross (Sherjan) of Calgary, Alberta passed away on Friday, June 30, 2017 at the age of 30 years. Every so often, the world is blessed with a special person whose joy, laughter and kindness radiates to anyone lucky enough to meet them. Jennifer Sarah Ross was one of those incredible people. After a short but full 30 years, Jen died peacefully surrounded by the love and touch of her family on June 30th in Calgary, Alberta. Remembered by her loving husband, David Sherjan; parents Rod and Sheilagh Ross; siblings Mike Ross (Chella), Tim Ross (Laura), Kate Ross (Jason McAleenan); nieces and nephews Reagan, Addison, Natasha, Will, Joe, Kate, Collin and Thomas. To know Jen was also to know her beloved pets. She was at ease with all animals, but had a particular soft-spot for Yorkshire Terriers and horses. Jen's life was characterized with an appreciation for the little things. She had a magnetic personality. Her stories were always cheerful and high-spirited. To know her was to understand the value of finding heart-shaped stones and smiley faces in the clouds. Her humour and positive energy filled every room she entered. Jen lived her life with a huge heart and non-judgmental compassion, her legacy will live on through others forever. Jen pursued her love of the natural world at St. Francis Xavier University, where she won a full scholarship to study Aquatic Resources. She went on to complete her Masters Degree in Resource and Environmental Management in 2011, at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She was a proponent for early environmental education and getting outside to enjoy the gift of life, working as both a private consultant and in the Alberta foothills at her cherished nature preserve, The Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area. Jen met David Sherjan, and was soon won over. They married on December 10, 2015. In recent years Jen and David became focused on developing their shared business interests, focusing in leadership development. Jen and David worked together to help others identify and achieve their own dreams, influencing many people with their determination and enthusiasm. A prayer vigil was held at 7:00 pm on Friday, July 7, 2017, at St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church. A celebration of her life was held at 11:00 am, on Saturday, July 8, 2017, from the Faith and Life Chapel at Augustana University in Camrose, Alberta, with Rev. Craig Wentland officiating. The family requests that colourful summer clothing be worn. Jen was eternally appreciative for everyone at the Stollery Children's Hospital and the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area. In lieu of flowers, if family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation (1-877-393-1411) or to the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area, 194001 160 St W, Calgary, AB T2J 2T9. The entire family wishes to express their appreciation to the family that donated a liver to Jen on June 3 of 1992. That selfless decision provided the world with the gift of Jen's second chance at life. There are no words to express our gratitude for these past 25 years. We ask that you take the time to discuss organ donation with your family and sign your donor card. Thank you for sharing your love and light for Jen with us and each other. Jennifer was predeceased by her grandparents Doug and Ede Ross, Paul Norris; and Aunts Barb Ross-Ryan, and Fran Norris.