RIP: Janine Poley

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POLEY, Janine Georgette

Born May 3, 1930, passed away peacefully on Sunday September 17, 2023 in Ottawa at 93 years of age. 

She will be greatly missed by her children Denise Poley, George Poley (wife Valri), Jonathan Poley, grandchildren Erica and Danen and great-grandson Dasein.

She is predeceased by the love of her life, Wilfrid Poley (2006). They met in Ottawa where she grew up. During their 55 year marriage they spent many happy years living in Rolphton and Deep River. Together they enjoyed great adventures while sailing, canoeing, hiking, skiing, kayaking and windsurfing. 

Janine and Wilf contributed much to their community. They were very dedicated to the local ski hills where they spent countless hours ski patrolling, instructing skiing, clearing ski trails, building ski lifts and grooming ski runs. 

While serving on town council Janine worked to get Deep River’s pool built. She loved volunteering at her beloved library. 

Many people in Deep River appreciated her willingness to share her love of sports as she so willingly instructed, particularly downhill skiing and windsurfing.

Janine will be remembered for her indomitable spirit, her passion for adventure and outdoor sports, and her lifelong passion for learning. She spoke several languages and loved classical music and opera. She was a proud French Canadian Métis.

Despite having left high school after grade 8 to help support her family during the war, Janine was a trail blazer, completing high school at 37 (unheard of during the 60’s), continuing on to achieve a BA from Queens at age 41 via correspondence in the winter and attendance on campus in the summers. She was a substitute teacher, then worked for the Ministry of Natural Resources and finally taught French for the Canadian Armed Forces.

Respecting Janine’s wishes, there will not be a funeral. Arrangements for cremation are entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Service.

Janine passed content that she’d had a wonderful life. She will be greatly missed by family and friends.

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