Jackie was born into a CP Railway family to parents Lucien and Vera Desharnais in Medicine Hat, AB. Jackie was the oldest of three children, Charmaine Desharnais of Edmonton, AB and pre-deceased by brother Lionel Desharnais of Wetaskiwin, AB. The family lived in several Alberta towns including Brooks and Coronation, but finally settled in Wetaskiwin where Jackie attended Sacred Heart School. After graduation, Jackie proved to be mathematically proficient and began working as a teller for the Bank of Commerce, starting her long career in the banking industry.
Jackie met and married Allan Calkins of Lacombe, lived briefly in Edmonton, then moved to Calgary where they raised their children, Glen (Laurie), Michelle (Doug De Filippi) and Neal (Tami). Jackie continued her career joining the downtown Bank of Montreal and later Elbow Park branch. Jackie was an active volunteer for the Kingsland Community Association and for the Calgary Aquabelles. Owing to her competent numerate skills, Jackie was named Chief Scoring Chairman for all of synchronized swimming in Canada.
When Al retired, they chose the country life homesteading not far from Ponoka, a return to their rural roots. Jackie continued her community involvement and also helped neighbors look after children. Finally having her own 7 grandchildren: Dale (& Lisa) Calkins (Calgary), Anna De Filippi (Houston), Paul De Filippi (Maui), Molly Calkins (Calgary), Ryann, Cori and Jack Calkins (Kelowna); Jackie had many reasons to be thankful.
After Al passed in 2013, Jackie soon after moved to Seasons Retirement Village in Ponoka where she enjoyed the company of many close friends, played cards, discovered art, attended exercise class regularly and continued to play an active part in both her children and grandchildren's lives. Jackie was resilient, living all of her 90+ years with strength, determination and above all kindness.
Jackie's family would like to thank Dr. Huang and the Cross Cancer Center and Ponoka General Hospital and all the doctors and nursing staff who cared for Mom.
At Jackie's request, there will not be a funeral service. A tree will be planted in living memory of Jackie Calkins.
Condolences may be made by visiting www.wilsonsfuneralchapel.ca
Wilson's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium