JÜRGENS (Neate), Mary Margaret Alice

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of mary Margaret Alice Jürgens (Neate) in Halifax, on December 28, 2020. Born June 3, 1932 to Kate Irene Ethel (Slingsby) and William Sydney Neate in Northwood, (Pinner), Middlesex, England, she developed an enduring passion for horses and music. As a young woman, Mary moved to Deauville, France, where she studied hotel management. It was there that she developed an appreciation for the French culture, especially its gastronomy and language. She was always sure to correct our too oftgarbled French mispronunciations. While vacationing in London, she met the man who would become her husband, a young physician named Iwan ( John) Kusmitch "Sonny" Jürgens. Together, they immigrated to Canada. Arriving at Pier 21 in November 1956, they were greeted warmly by resettlement volunteers, people who would become lifelong friends and set a tone for the young couple’s life in Canada. Originally intending to settle in Winnipeg, John and Mary instead fell in love with the warmth of Halifax and stayed. It was in Halifax that they raised their family of four children whom they adored. Their interest in others and ability to easily develop friendships lead to their home on Tower Road becoming a gathering place for friends from near and far. Mary was a passionate organic gardener, combining the produce of her extensive gardens with her culinary expertise to the delight of all. An instinctive cuisinière, she could also create the perfect omelette, or a good old English Eggs & Beans on Toast comfort food on a cold winter’s day. Mary was employed with the Bank of Montreal for nearly 30 years. After retirement from BMO International Exchange, she enjoyed meeting with former colleagues at annual retirees’ luncheons. For the past seven years, Mary appreciated the many friendships formed at Parkland at the Gardens. She became an avid reader with a great interest in history. Mary was predeceased by her husband, Iwan; her parents, and her brother, Roger. She is survived by her children, Alex (Tannis) of Falmouth; Philip (Kim) of Williamsburg, Ont.; Anna (Andrewmunn) of Halifax; and Stefan (Danielle) of Toronto, Ont.; grandchildren, Kate and Claire; Andrew and Austin; Sandy, Robyn, and Geoffrey; and great-grandson, Maddox. She is also survived by her nephew, Timothy Neate, and his children, Oliver, Thomas, and Emily of Essex, UK. For the past seven years Mom has enjoyed the many friendships formed at Parkland at the Gardens. We are thankful for the caring and compassionate environment provided during this stage of her life. We are grateful to the staff of the Halifax Infirmary, and to the Palliative Care Unit of the VG Site, QEII for their incredible warmth and compassion. A private family funeral and interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to All Saints Cathedral (Halifax), or to the Palliative Care Unit of the VG Site, QEII. To leave an online condolence please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com