Marilyn "Lyn" Grace (Powless) Jeske

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marilyn (Lyn) Jeske (Powless) on March 7, 2025, at the age of 83. Lyn lived a positive and full life, facing the challenges of Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia with strength and grace. Through it all, she and her beloved partner, Frank Vidalin, always found a way to laugh and smile, even during difficult times.

Lyn is survived by her loving children: Dennis (Darlene) and their daughters Andrea and Stephanie, and Karen (Steve) and their daughters Robyn (Mark) and Jennifer. She will also be deeply missed by her sister Doreen Hayes, Frank’s daughter Marcy, and grandson Robbie. Lyn was predeceased by her partner Frank Vidalin (March 8, 2021), her parents William and Hazel Powless, her brothers Bill and Ken Powless, her aunt Freda Nickels, nieces Laurie Powless and Donna Hayes, and nephew Rick Hayes.

Later in life, Lyn discovered that her father was Indigenous and had attended a residential school. This revelation inspired Lyn and her family to explore and reconnect with their Indigenous roots, deepening their understanding of their heritage.

Lyn met her first husband, Glenn, at a school football game in Regina when she was just 16. They married four years later and built a life together. Lyn attended Belfour Tech and later worked at Sask Tel. After Dennis was born in 1963, the family relocated to Calgary in 1965 with Glenn’s job. Karen was born in 1967, and Lyn dedicated herself to raising their children before returning to work at Woodmann Interiors around 1978.

The family created lasting memories on long trips to Regina and cross-country adventures in their motorhome. Lyn and Glenn divorced in 1993, and Lyn proudly purchased her own condo in Calgary, which became a source of joy, especially when filled with the laughter of her granddaughters.

In 2003, Lyn’s life changed when a mutual friend introduced her to Frank. He arrived at her door with flowers for their first date, marking the beginning of 18 wonderful years together. They traveled often, including trips to the UK, Dubai, Oman, and yearly visits to BC and Manitoba. Lyn and Frank eventually sold their condo and built a house in Calgary’s new community of Legacy, where they shared many happy years.

Following Frank’s passing in 2021, Lyn moved to Bobcaygeon, Ontario, with Karen. In December 2021, she settled into Case Manor Care Community, where she spent her final years surrounded by compassionate staff who shared countless stories of Lyn’s quick wit and warmth.

Lyn’s life was defined by love, laughter, and resilience. She touched the hearts of everyone who knew her, and her memory will live on in the lives of her family and friends. A celebration of Lyn’s life will be held in Calgary on July 27, 2025 (her 84th birthday). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Canada or a charity of your choice in Lyn’s honor.