
Jane Scherzer – née Sarah Jane St. Clair Shaw, Edinburgh Scotland
Jane, who began her journey as the youngest of three in Edinburgh, was one of the many children shipped off to the Scottish countryside during World War II to protect them from bombing raids. Jane’s spirited nature and zest for life were evident from a young age.
After attending school at George Watsons, Jane embarked on an art-filled adventure, enrolling as an art student at Edinburgh University, visiting the enchanting city of Paris, and even experiencing a brief period as an au-pair in Sweden, and chambermaid for Lawrence Olivier! It was during this time that she decided to leave Scotland on a ship bound for Montreal, where her path would serendipitously cross with that of Martin Scherzer, whom she would marry.
Together, the newlywed couple ventured to rural British Columbia, where Jane worked as Martin’s chairside dental assistant, saving funds to make a belated honeymoon trip to Asia. Back in Montreal, nine months after their trip, the pair welcomed their firstborn, Mark.
Relocating to Victoria BC, the couple settled in their first house on Hollywood Crescent – where they celebrated the birth of their second son, Paul. The family spent five cherished years in this home before making a move to Terrace Ave. Jane began donating blood regularly during this period, marking the start of a lifelong commitment to helping others.
The family spent the boys’ formative years in the big house “Kearsley” on Beach Drive. With their sons growing up, Jane supported their transition to university in other cities while also starting a home-stay service for UVic students, her giving spirit shining through, as she opened her home to many individuals over the years.
In 1986, Jane and Martin downsized to a house at the foot of Cook Street, fully embracing world travel by cruising to various countries, and collecting countless memorable experiences along the way.
Throughout her life in Victoria, Jane was an active and engaged presence who revelled in invigorating walks with friends, stories, and companionship. In 1994, Jane and Martin relocated to their beloved Laurel Point townhouse in James Bay, where Jane began volunteering at the Governor General House Museum. Jane’s generous spirit and unwavering compassion for those in need were a hallmark of her character, always ready to assist whenever and wherever she could.
With the new millennium came Jane’s two beautiful grandchildren Aran and Lara, and for more than a decade Jane made the trek to Toronto with Martin to pay them a visit.
In late 2020, Jane’s daily walking routine was suddenly disrupted due to a fall while out shopping. This accident left her bedridden. As time passed, Jane struggled increasingly with memory loss. In 2023, after three years of living at home with care provided by Martin, Jane’s Alzheimer’s required leaving her beloved view of the Inner Harbour behind for a view of the Gorge Waterway while residing in long-term care. Throughout this challenging period Martin remained a constant presence, visiting her frequently and ensuring she received the care and attention she deserved.
Jane’s legacy of kindness, compassion, and adventurous spirit will forever be remembered by those whose lives she touched. She leaves behind a trail of cherished memories, an enduring example of resilience, and a heart full of love.
Cremation has taken place privately. The family wish to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for Jane over the last several years, especially Sheena Twohig RSW who served as Jane’s Case Manager. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of BC, 306 Burnside Road West, Suite 202, Victoria BC, V8Z 1M1, Canada, or via their website’s Donate Now button at https://alzheimer.ca/bc/en/node/391.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Bruce Wrigley
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Ana Escobedo-Boulard Jane’s kindness, laughter, boundless enthusiasm, and unquenchable thirst for life are unforgettable —a profound example to me and to everyone whose lives she touched. A truly beautiful and grand lady in every way. I was so very lucky to have crossed her path.
My deepest condolances to you Martin, Paul and Mark.
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Dodie Eastaugh I will always remember meeting you both soon after I arrived in Victoria to marry John.
We house-sat for you when to went to Expo ‘86. It was a charming way to arrive in the city in your beautiful home.
You and Jane were so welcoming.
My sincere condolences to you, Mark and Paul.
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Bruce and Barbara Housser What a lovely tribute to Jane. It triggered such fond memories. Martin, Mark and family, our thoughts are with you.
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Colin Gardiner I will always remember and cherish Jane, as well as Martin, as being among the most welcoming and friendly of friends’ parents that one could ever hope for. Their unending generosity as hosts when I was a teenager inspired me to be a better parent, when my turn at that role came. Jane was always very lovely in her interactions with me. My deepest condolences to Martin, Mark and Paul, as well as the extended family. Her glow lives on.
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Ron Greene I was sorry to read of Jane’s passing. I always held her in high regard even though we have not seen her for many years. Ron Greene
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David Heft My condolences to Martin and his family whose friendship goes back half a century. May Jane’s memory be a blessing.
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Yvonne Foxall I’m saddened to hear of your loss – Jane always had a special place in my heart. My deepest condolences to you all.
I think that Jane preferred in-person conversation, instead of telephone (my usual approach). My strongest memory of her from our conversations was of her enduring love for her sons. She is missed by all.