Dr. Jennifer Sibilla Maria Oates, 50 of Metchosin, British Columbia, on the 8th of August, 2023.
Jennifer was born May 26th, 1973, the beloved first child and daughter of John and Sibilla Oates, of Cayuga, Ontario.
She is the devoted and cherished mother of Connor and Calla Simmons.
Deeply thoughtful, creative, funny, talented, inspiring, warm, and loving eldest sister to Sean (Monica Czagan), Byron (Jenn Lau), Christopher (Sarah Driessens), Christine (Karl Acelin), Michael and Theresa (Alec Maher).
Adventure-toting and dear auntie to Remi and Bodhi Oates, Erin and Áine Driessens-Oates, Lyrik, Ceres, and Reden Acelin, and Mila Maher.
Adored neice of Sue and Rick Booth, Luc and Janice Jacobs, David Jacobs, Elizabeth and Rod Turner, Sheilagh and Larry Moerschfelder, and Ken and Trudy Oates.
Jennifer will be forever remembered by many first and second cousins all across Canada.
She is survived by her former spouse, Chris Simmons.
Jennifer graduated in 2003 from the University of British Columbia as Doctor of Medicine and went on to complete her residency at London Health Sciences, fulfilling the requirements for the specialty of Psychiatry in 2009. She has been with Island Health on Vancouver Island since that time, specializing in Geriatric Psychiatry with skill, dedication, and compassion. Her commitment to improving the lives of seniors, particularly in Victoria’s Western Shores, through modern medical professionalism, and with collaboration, innovation, and best practice, has brought enduring benefit to the community.
In her far too brief time with us, Jennifer filled her days and her heart by cherishing moments with her greatest joy, her children; relaxing in conversation over a cup of tea or a glass of fine wine; working on her many creative projects, especially those in her kitchen and garden, with her children either learning alongside or otherwise close by; nourishing her family and close friends with all manner of gustatory delights; journeying through space and time by getting lost and then found again, either in the beauty and majesty of the island that she chose as her home, a good tome or a deep and moody verse; and practicing her piano and violin to her heart’s content.
The sudden loss of our Jennifer leaves us broken-hearted and facing an unfathomable void. Her family welcomes her friends and colleagues, and anyone touched by her beautiful life, to join us at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC on Wednesday, August 16th, 2023 for a visitation (11:15am) and a service in celebration of her life (1:00pm). A burial service will follow immediately after for the family only.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
85 Responses
My deepest condolences to Jennifer’s children and family. Working with Jennifer at the Senior’s Outpatient Clinic, I gleaned much knowledge through the several years we worked together; and enjoyed social events we both attended. She was an excellent and caring Geriatric Psychiatrist and will be missed by many staff and clients.
I had the privilege and great pleasure of going on outreach with Jennifer to Northern BC. This news is shocking and so saddening. Jennifer was an enormous pleasure to be with and an excellent psychiatrist. My deepest condolences to her family. Her colleagues and patients will miss her.
Jennifer, oh how can I forget your wit, your compassionate and patient centred care. As a colleague in geriatric mental health program in London I had first hand experience of working with her for nearly two years. There was so much to learn from her. Humbled by being with her for such a short little time. May her onward journey be as exciting and rewarding! Life just cannot end during our limited time on this planet
John and Sibilla, we were so sad to hear of Jennifer’s passing. Our hearts and thoughts go out to you and your family and Jennifer’s family. Wishing you comfort and peace in the love and memories you hold forever in your hearts.
Jennifer was a beacon of light and warmth to those that knew her professionally and personally. She spontaneously reached out and helped me through a difficult dark time despite not being a close friend and being half a continent away. My deepest condolences to her children and family. I am deeply saddened that I will not see her in person again. May those who were close to her find some peace in knowing what an amazing, kind and genuine person she was.