Obituary
Guest Book
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
58 Entries
Stacey Knechtel
January 16, 2018
Dear Pat Roseburg, Jeff Rosebrugh and Jeff Murray,
I am saddened by the news of Jenny's passing. The world has lost a bright light! I am so glad to have known her. It is surreal to me that she is no longer with us. I will hold you in my prayers and thoughts. Love to you all.
Robin McCoy
December 4, 2017
Jennifer was my stepmoms niece but the last 2 times we spoke we said we felt like cousins or even sisters. She was a wonderful woman and I considered myself blessed to have known her. My daughter and I will miss her always smiling face!
Julie Snorek
December 4, 2017
Dear Friends and Family of Jennifer,
She was such a blessing in so many peoples' lives, across the world. Please know that I am grateful for the inspiration and advice she bestowed upon me a while back, which inspired my pursuit of international work. Jennifer's courageous generosity and love shine on.
Julie
Delia Coates
December 4, 2017
I loved the service you had for Jennifer and all your family said about her. I will really miss her. I met Jennifer at church. We served on the board together shortly and she was a substitute reader briefly during my term. We also met at a wildlife protection seminar and had a number of discussions on the topic and met at other social events. She was always teeming with energy and enthusiasm and willing to help in any way she could. During the service I could see how far reaching her connections are and how courageous she was. I admired her trailblazing approach to achieving goals. I would have loved to have known Jennifer better. She said for everyone to help and love each other and so we should continue on with an awakened sense of this goal. She left the world a better place. God speed Jennifer!
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Peter Richter
December 3, 2017
Dear Jeff;
We were very sad to hear the news of Jennifer's passing. Though we did not know her too well, we certainly enjoyed meeting her and hearing about the exciting places and roles she has had in the foreign service. We received the news in an email from Heritage Cambridge, where Pat was so instrumental in making it a success. I hope you are keeping well and strong during this difficult time.
With our deepest sympathy,
Peter and Janet
December 3, 2017
I cherish every moment I spent with Jennifer, from the second I met her, to her last words of encouragement in a recent email. She was a very special friend, someone who influenced me with her goodness, wisdom, kindness and infectious joy. I thank God for bringing us together, and will always think of her and smile.
Gina

She almost looks Italian in this great shot in Rome
Theresa Dietrich
December 1, 2017
Roman Hruby
November 29, 2017
I am deeply shocked about the passing of Jennifer. We were colleagues at DFAIT - and she was always very positive and constructive. I will miss her greatly, particularly her infectious smile. My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to her family. May she rest in peace and enjoy her assignments in the after-life.
Alan Minz
November 29, 2017
Jennifer cast her spell on me when she and I worked together in Ottawa in the division at Global Affairs Canada which mentors and trains foreign service officers working in international trade. I was immediately drawn to Jennifer's effervescent personality and humungous heart, which she meted out in generous doses.
Having landed in Ottawa after more than a decade overseas, I felt like a fish out of water. I will never forget the helping hand she extended to me in putting down roots. She brought me into her delectable world, and introduced me to Jeff and her Mom, which opened up my eyes to how deeply she loved, and was loved.
One would be hard pressed to find a more genuine or sincere human being. Jennifer called a spade a spade, even if it was not politically or culturally expedient to do so. Those fortunate enough to have befriended her, and to have caught a glimpse of the world which she viewed with a critical eye, but believed in passionately, are wiser and more compassionate as a result.
Thank-you, Jennifer. I regret that I did not have longer to burrow with you into life's bountiful pleasures and mysteries. I hope our paths cross again, someday.

A day spent in one of the places Jenny loved
Theresa Dietrich
November 29, 2017
Our whole family is shocked and saddened by Jenny's recent death. I grew up with Jenny at our family cottages in Grand Bend on Lake Huron and went from playing on the beach with her when we children all the way to attending each others' weddings and beyond. Jenny was an incredibly positive person with such deep faith. She was never one to hold back on her opinions which was part of her charm. Jenny was an original and the world was a better place because of her. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Eleanor Miller
November 28, 2017
My sincere sympathy, Pat. I met Jennifer on many occasions with Heritage Cambridge.
Alexis Bennett-Wheeler
November 27, 2017
To all of my Rosebrugh clan.
Jennifer will and I know missed by us all. I cherish all of our memories together and am so grateful to have had such a wonderful cousin.
Jenny has left a huge impact in my heart and I will be blessed daily because of that.
Love and hugs to you all
Alexis
Donald Wheeler
November 27, 2017
Pat & family
Sadden by the news of Jennifer's passing. Enjoyed our many visits. It was a pleasure knowing her, loved hearing about her adventures
My prayers and thoughts are with you all
You will miss her dearly.
Nicholas Sarvari
November 27, 2017
Dear Jeff and family, we are deeply saddened by passing of a dear friend; a friend to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Hungary; and a true friend of Canada. We who were touched by Jennifer's energy for life will always remember how her positive outlook always prevailed. Thank you Jennifer for all that you brought to us.
Synthia
November 27, 2017
I will truly miss JLOR. I was lucky enough to work with Jennifer during her posting in Budapest. She opened her heart and her home to me. I will never forget her positive attitude and kindness. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Jane Rooney
November 26, 2017
Dear Jeff and family,
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. I met Jennifer almost 20 years ago on my first mission to Moscow. She was inspiring and so energetic and passionate in doing her job. I learned so much from her. When my husband passed away, she reached out to me immediately. The words that she wrote are many of the same words that could be used to describe Jennifer:....sense of humour, patience, creativity... these are gifts which (Jennifer) lit up the days of so many.
Brad Wark
November 26, 2017
During her Rome posting JLOR wrote that her earrings were getting longer and her skirts were getting shorter. Classic and very entertaining.
Robert Peck
November 24, 2017
I had the good fortune to work with Jennifer during my tenure as Director of the Central and West Africa Division. She was a wonderful colleague, full of energy and joie de vivre. Maria and I were shocked to learn of her untimely passing and send our deepest sympathies to her husband and family.
Robert Peck and Maria Pantazi Peck
Paola
November 24, 2017
Ciao Jennifer! You were very special to me. I will never forget the great times we spent together in Italy and the nickname you used to call me with: chickadee. The world will never be the same without you. Love, Paola
Canada West
November 24, 2017
Jeff, I am shocked and saddened to hear of Jennifer's passing. I am so glad that we all had the chance to meet and chat the last time I was in Ottawa. I have many happy memories of times we shared in Geneva... especially being on the receiving side of a surprise birthday party she planned for me...
A great loss for everyone. My prayers go out to you and the family.
Canada
Anne & Adri Coppens
November 24, 2017
Jeff,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We are sorry for your loss.
Yvonne Gruenthaler
November 24, 2017
So sorry to hear that Jennifer has passed. She will ne missed
Anne-Marie Bourcier
November 23, 2017
I worked with Jennifer during her DFAIT HQ assignment on Sub-Saharan Africa. Her leadership and contributions on the trade files were significant. Her joie de vivre, her positive attitude and energic approach inspired her colleagues and team. Sincere condolences to her close and loved ones.
Anne-Marie Bourcier
November 23, 2017
I worked with Jennifer during her assignment at HQ in the Sub-Saharian Africa region. Her leadership and contributions on the trade files were significant. Her joie de vivre, her positive attitude and energic approach were an inspiration for her colleagues and team, Sincere condolences to her close and loved ones.
Peter Cramer
November 23, 2017
Sorry for your loss
Quite a shock for me as I sort of grew up with Jennifer during summers in Grand Bend
Keep strong during this tragic period
God Bless
Kenneth Wong
November 23, 2017
JLOR was my desk officer "back at HQ" when I was on my first posting in Johannesburg. I can certainly corroborate the many comments regarding Jennifer's eternally positive disposition. She will be missed. One of the good ones.
David Clendenning
November 23, 2017
I am saddened to hear of her passing. She was an excellent colleague to work with. My condolences to her family.
Syed Sameer Ahmed
November 22, 2017
Jennifer, or jlor as she signed her emails, was a wonderful, kind and accomplished colleague, always full of enthusiasm for even the most mundane of projects. She will be missed. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.
Anne Waddell
November 22, 2017
Dear Jeff and Family,
I am so sorry to have been out of touch but I will make this entry about Jennifer. The thing I remember most is that she "walked the talk". After every posting Jenny came home and chose those individuals and causes that she would support and support them she did, with dedication, loyalty and self-sacrifice. Jennifer taught me and she gave lessons to my children about powers larger than ourselves. Jenny believed and always acted on her beliefs - someone of enormous value and with a lasting personal legacy.
Allison Hamilton
November 22, 2017
I first met Jennifer when she was at Trent and my parents took her to church. It turned out she was my best friends neighbour in residence, such a small world. When I later moved to Ottawa, Jenny made me welcome including me in her circle of friends, easing my transition. She had such joy for life and desire to help others which she put into her choice of careers. Her ray of sunshine will still beam on to shine on the whole world, I am sure. She will be missed.
Suzie and Ed Loughlin
November 21, 2017
Dear Jeff and family,
I had the pleasure of working with Jennifer when she was posted to Budapest and I was posted to Croatia. She was a pleasure to work with. She will be missed.
Our sincere condolences.
Michelle Blumberg
November 21, 2017
Jenny was one of the most loving and friendly people I have met. I have many great memories with her - spending holidays at the cottage, Christmas in Atlanta, and many more.
You will be greatly missed.
Mary Lou Finlan
November 21, 2017
Jennifer and I did an apartment swap over Christmas 1990. I had the pleasure to meet her as I arrived in Geneva before she left to spend time at my apartment in Prague. She made me feel very much at home and was very welcoming. RIP My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones.
Karra-Lee Gerrits
November 21, 2017
Jennifer was a ray of sunshine that brightened every room, every person and everything she touched. Even an email she would have sent from many miles and timezones away somehow carried the unmistakeable 'JLOR' happiness and energy. I worked with Jennifer during a difficult period of my life and will be forever grateful for the support, understanding and love that she so unselfishly gave. The world has truly lost a bright light and I am very sorry for the loss of her family and loved ones.
Darren Smith
November 20, 2017
Jennifer was generous with her energy, smile, and camaraderie. She had a positive impact on many people, and a whole generation of young trade commissioners. Heartbroken that she's gone.
Ornella Rabbiosi
November 20, 2017
I worked for Jennifer when she was in Rome .great person to work for .I remember her as a generous kind and joyous person. spent many happy evenings at her home. my condolences to the family .
Bart Schobben
November 20, 2017
I know Jennifer during my years in Budapest. She was a wonderful colleague! Always a laugh and a smile that accompanied her high professionalism. My deepest condolences to the whole family and the Canadian Trade Commissioners team.
Cathy & Mike Hodgins
November 20, 2017
So sad to hear this news. I only knew Jennifer as a "neighbour down the street", and only for a short time, but each and every interaction was lovely - often a funny turn of phrase to brighten the day. Sincere sympathy to Jeff, Jeff, Anne and Maya.
Sheryl MacLean
November 20, 2017
Carissima JLOR, your light will burn brightly in the lives of all us fortunate to have been touched by yours. Your foot print will remain forever in our hearts. Hugs xox
Barry Larocque
November 20, 2017
Jennifer and I saved a few over-heated chickens at the border with some timely import permits in those early days. She was an early mentor and a wonderful, positive presence and influence. My heartfelt condolences to Jennifer's family and friends.
Carolyn Cudmore
November 20, 2017
I met Jennifer on my first mission to Moscow and was so taken by her vibrant personality, not to mention her passion for Russian history and culture. Her kindness and generosity were immediate, she included me in an outing to the ballet that evening. It's an experience I will not forget. My sincerest condolences to Jennifer's family. She was so genuine and her smile infectious.
November 20, 2017
I worked with Jennifer in Moscow (many years ago), who could forget her positive energy and spirit. Such sad news, my sincere condolences to her family.
Jany Joyal
Brad Wark
November 20, 2017
JLOR often turned a great phrase and was a good friend at NPSIA. Gone too soon.
Zulfi Sadeque
November 19, 2017
Shocked and saddened to hear that Jennifer is no more. She was a friend and a colleague whose energy and a ready willingness to help was a constant in all my dealings with her while at post or at Pearson. RIP, my friend!
Joanne Bertrand
November 19, 2017
I will always remember Jennifer, a lovely colleague and a very special person. We missed her very much when she was on leave but were fortunate to keep in touch with her. She was always so positive and caring. Our deepest condolences to Jeff, her mother and her family.
Anne Argyris
November 19, 2017
I worked with Jennifer on a couple of overlapping trade files at DFAIT and got to know her quite well. It was always a pleasure to be around her, truly a very happy person. Though we lost touch, I have fond memories of Jennifer. She was a wonderful colleague. My sincere condolences
Gayle Bissett
November 18, 2017
I am so surprised and saddened to learn of the recent passing of Jennifer. I met her a number of years ago through the Christian Science Church and she was always such an outstanding speaker during her testimonials and a marvelous example of extraordinary character. My heart goes out to her family and friends. Sincerely, Gayle Bissett
November 18, 2017
What dreadful news. I always considered Jenifer to be a fine colleague but also more than that. We had many enjoyable conversations over the years. I am heartbroken for Jeff and her Mother as well other members of her family and network of friends,
Sincere condolences my friend...Cathy Dickson
Marcia Ten Holder
November 18, 2017
Dear Jennifer,
All your loving deeds remain in our hearts, thank you! Since nothing can separate you from the Love of God.
Don Butler
November 18, 2017
Condolences to all who were close to Jennifer. Her positive attitude and energetic approach to life was an example to colleagues and friends alike. I was glad to be both and will miss her
November 18, 2017
I first met Jennifer when she was president of Heritage Ottawa, a role that she fulfilled with passion and reason. I will remember her positive approach to all things and the spark of light that she brought with her when she entered any room.
My sincere condolences to her family.
Carolyn Quinn
Past-President, Heritage Ottawa
Mitch Vlad
November 18, 2017
Having worked shoulder-to-shoulder with Jennifer, I was always struck by her vitality. She'd walk to and from work when it was lashing rain or -40C, uphill both ways. Like other colleagues and friends, I was shocked to hear of the passing of such a resilient and caring lady. Jennifer and Jeff were a most warm and hospitable couple. My heart goes out to Jeff, to Jennifer's mom and to all her family who will miss her terribly, as will her many friends.
Stuart Lazear
November 18, 2017
My sincere condolences on the loss of Jennifer. I had the great pleasure to work with her on heritage projects in Ottawa and it was a joy to know her.
Leslie Maitland
November 18, 2017
When Jennifer returned to Ottawa after her most recent posting, she threw herself into heritage activities immediately, offering a wonderful walking tour of Lindenlea which was a hit with everyone who took it. While our time on the board of Heritage Ottawa did not overlap, I can say that her imprint on that organisation and on heritage in Ottawa has been indelible and long lasting. We owe so much to Jennifer, and she will be missed.
Maya Rosebrugh
November 18, 2017
Dear Jenny,
I love you with all my heart! You have been so kind, loving and generous to everyone you have met including me!! I have so MANY spectacular memories with you and there are no memories I could ever forget. You are the nicest and best aunt I could ever imagine and I am so greatfull to have know you for 12 years! I really hope I can become half as amazing and loving a person as you were!! Thank you for everything!!!! I miss you very much!!
November 18, 2017
I am truly saddened by the news of my ex-colleague's passing away. RIP Jennifer.
Bob Publicover
November 18, 2017
It was a privilege to work with Jennifer briefly on a couple of occasions over the years while we were both at DFAIT.
She was a very decent and talented colleague.
With sympathy,
Bob Publicover
Sandy Stefanik
November 18, 2017
Jennifer was a compassionate soul, strengthened by her faith, and passionate about her beliefs. I was posted with Jennifer in Geneva and fortunate to work with her again at HQ. I will miss her but relieved to know that she is at peace and among other loved ones who left this physical world before her. Her family and other friends are in my thoughts and prayers.
Showing 1 - 58 of 58 results

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more