Obituaries

Valerie Gwen Jacobson, born on June 22nd, 1959, in Estevan, SK, passed away on Saturday, April 29th, 2023. She was predeceased by her father, Allan Jacobson; and is survived by her mother, Helen Jacobson; and her sister, Shelley Jacobson; sister Dione (Gerald) Aquin, nieces J’Lynn and Hailey, nephew Jared; sister, Darla (Roger) LaRochelle, and nephews Ryan (Natasha) and Dylan.

Valerie was known for her smile, her warm and welcoming nature, her genuine concern for others, and her sense of humour. Family and friends meant everything to Valerie, so she always took the opportunity to capture moments at gatherings with her camera in hand. Her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of her family and friends, but the treasured memories will live on forever in our thoughts.

Music was a passion of Valerie’s from early on in her life. She started playing the recorder and that lead to her playing the clarinet with the school band and the marching band, and she even taught clarinet lessons to many students at home. Also, Valerie was an avid accordion player and was eager to learn in her lessons from Matt Fleck, as she was enthusiastic to compete in several competitions. The family was excited and proud to watch Valerie play a duet with Cindy Brennon on the Roger McLaughlin Profile show on TV for those that remember the show. Valerie was eager to play in the Almassy band for a brief time years ago as well.

Valerie sang descant in the United Church choir directed by Shirley Andrist. While in the hospital, Valerie would sing, with a smile on her face, some of the old gospel songs from the musicals they used to travel around and perform.

Valerie worked at Kohaly’s Law Firm while in school in grades 11/12. She earned the nickname, Popcorn Snapper, while working for years at the rink concession. After graduating high school, Valerie moved to Regina and gained employment at the City of Regina where she went on to work in various departments including Clerks, Taxation, Claim and Insurance Investigator, Cemeteries, and City Yards. She wasn’t afraid to try new things and was committed to advancing herself by taking the courses to qualify her for each position.

Valerie played for years in the Hotelmen’s Curling league where she had the opportunity to travel around to bonspiels and make new friends along the way. She became an Eagles Club member where she organized and attended curling bonspiels as well. Being one of the original chartered members, she participated in starting the women’s auxiliary.

Valerie lived with her sister Shelley and together they travelled on several bus trips. All four sisters enjoyed a Bahamas cruise and a trip to Venezuela together, where they made fond memories and have interesting stories to share about these vacations. Valerie and Shelley used to jump in their small trailer and venture to Kenosee lake, Buffalo View, and Buffalo Pound. She would pack her accordion to play songs at the bonfires where they both sang along. Valerie enjoyed going to her parent’s property at Mouse River Park, South Dakota. She enjoyed the dances, bingos, car shows, pie socials and all the other functions held at the park.

Valerie began her battle with breast cancer at the early age of forty and fought the health issues that came with treatment for years after. The cancer returned 23 years later, and she had congestive heart failure. Though it ended early, she lived a good life and was well liked, and had many good friends.

Thank you to all the doctors and nurses that assisted with her care. It meant everything to the family that she was well cared for during her stay in the hospital. A special thank you to our good friend, Shannon G. for the loving care she provided to our family and to Valerie during her time in palliative care. Thank you to Almassy Metz Funeral Home for their guidance.

A private family gathering will be held in her honor to celebrate Valerie’s life.