Gillian "Jill" Annette (Smith) Kruger Obituary (1960 - 2025)

With deep sadness we announce the passing of Jill Kruger on March 18, 2025. Jill was born Sept 8, 1960, in Bathurst, New Brunswick. She was proud to talk about how Mom came over to NB from England as a war bride in 1946. In 1970, Mom and the kids moved to Winnipeg. As Jill grew up, she loved to travel and camp and go for long walks on the beach, and spend time in her yard and garden, and listen to music. Jill was always an independent, adventurous, spontaneous free spirit. She lived life on her own terms "in the now." She lived in many places before settling in Courtenay, BC where she built a wonderful life alongside Merle, her husband of 31 years, who adored her. He became Jill's caregiver when she became very ill with a rare blood disease (PRV), which became cancer (Myelofibrosis) in the latter years. She suffered much pain and discomfort as time went on. Most of us felt that Jill was the strongest woman we knew. Jill had a strong work ethic and worked in hospitality jobs most of her life before landing her dream job at Woofy's where she got to work with like-minded animal lovers. Jill rescued many of God's creatures over the years. Her life was built around all things furry and feathery, too. She felt her purpose was to give a home and food to as many as possible, and in turn, she reaped the joys and comforts of their love and affection. Jill was predeceased by Mom, Edna Smith and Dad, George Smith. She will be missed by her loving husband Merle and her four siblings: Wayne (Margaret) Smith, Wendy Scott, Beverly (Bruce) Frolick, and Kevin (Carol Couchie) Smith. Jill also leaves behind 2 dogs and 3 cats, and many wonderful human friends, nieces, nephews, and cousins. We envision Jill has now met up with Mom and Eddie (dog) and all the rest of the furry family she loved, and is pain free, dancing and laughing with them all in heaven. Special thanks to Woofy's (Jill was treated like gold!), and the Comox Valley Hospital and Comox Valley Hospice doctors and nurses for their care and attention. To honour Jill's memory, donations can be made to Mars Wildlife Rescue or Kittycat Pals. In keeping with Jill's wishes, no formal service will be held. Cremation has already taken place.