We are saddened to share that Jean McDonald, who worked for over 40 years in the office of the Dean OVC, has passed away.
Jean began her long career with the Ontario Veterinary College in 1943. First as a secretary, then as Assistant to the Dean spanning the incumbency of six Principals and Deans. Jean worked with Dr. Trevor Lloyd Jones, who was instrumental in gaining university status for the college.
During her forty plus year affiliation with OVC, Jean was proud of her contribution to OVC’s growth from a college to a teaching and research facility and then an international resource centre.
She completed two university degrees through summer and winter extension courses, receiving her BA in 1959 from the University of Western Ontario and her Master’s in Public Administration and History in 1964 from the University of Michigan, East Lansing.
With Deans, Trevor Lloyd Jones, Dennis Howell and others, Jean made several trips to Botswana, China, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Dr. Ian Barker, University Professor Emeritus in OVC’s Department of Pathobiology, describes her as “an OVC icon, efficient, discrete, perfect manners, and always ready to deal with any crisis in an absolutely unflappable manner.”
Jean was in her 99th year. Memorial arrangements have been entrusted to Gilchrist Chapel - McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home.