Jan Louise Hickling

Jan Louise Hickling passed away suddenly at home on March 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, kindness, and love.

Born in Barrie, Ontario, Jan was welcomed into the loving home of Ross and Marjory Hickling, who raised her as their own. From her earliest days in Barrie, Jan possessed a warmth and generosity of spirit that would define everything she did throughout her life.

Jan devoted her career to social work, spending her life in service to others during their most vulnerable moments. Those who knew her professionally knew her as someone who showed up—fully and wholeheartedly—for the people who needed it most.

But it was at home where Jan truly shone. She was a deeply devoted mother to her three children, Kyle, Jacob, and Lesleigh Russell, and a proud and loving grandmother to her two granddaughters, Harlome and Morgan Russell. She is also survived by her brother, Brad Hickling and his wife Sandra Hickling. Her family was her greatest joy.

Jan had a profound love for animals, and her faithful dogs Rolo and Oliver were constant companions and a source of endless happiness for her. She had a lifelong passion for horses and found great peace in horseback riding. Animals of all kinds brought her joy, and her deep appreciation for nature was evident in the time she spent tending to her garden, surrounded by the beauty she nurtured.

Though born and raised in Ontario, Jan’s heart belonged to Pigeon Lake, Alberta, where she found her truest connection to the natural world. It is there—amid the mountains she loved so dearly—that her family will carry out her final wishes and return her to the land that brought her so much peace.

In keeping with Jan’s wishes, no formal service will be held. Her family will honour her memory by laying her to rest in the mountains she loved, alongside her beloved dogs.

Jan Louise Hickling was a good mother, a loyal friend, and a kind soul. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jan Louise Hickling, please visit our floral store.