Jenifer Eelin AITKEN

1962 - 2023

JENIFER EELIN AITKEN 1962 - 2023 It is with unspeakable sadness that we share that Jeni, beloved daughter of Don and Jo, died tragically in an accident on Sunday, July 9, 2023. Jeni is survived by her husband, Hanif Patni; her adored children, Sajad and Meg; her mother, Jo; sister, Melanie (Dave Grissen); brother, Thomas (Kate Hyde); stepfather, William Steele; numerous cousins and members of her extended family; as well as an army of friends from every chapter of her life who mourn her loss deeply. Born in Toronto, Jeni graduated from University of Toronto Schools, Trinity College and University of Toronto Law School; and London School of Economics. Jeni always distinguished herself professionally, from topping the Dean's list and mooting world at law school, to earning accolades at the top firms in Toronto and London, rounding out the last part of her exceptional career serving the country she loved so much. As Assistant Deputy Minister for the Central Agencies Portfolio at the Department of Justice, where she was the principal legal advisor to the Department of Finance, she was widely admired for her fearless and incisive advice, particularly in times of crisis, delivered always with profound humility. For all Jeni's professional accomplishments and community gifts (most recently and unreservedly as Clerk of Session at Glebe St. James), it was her family and friends whom she loved most deeply, and for whom she sacrificed time and again without hesitation. Her generosity and compassionate spirit knew no bounds. She lived for her children, Saj and Meg, and loved them beyond expression. Jeni and her loving husband, Hanif, grew their family in London and then Ottawa, creating a life together with Saj and Meg that was rich, filled with beauty, warmth and love. There was always a hearth open to anyone in need, and a gathering that would lift one's spirits. It is a grave loss indeed for those fortunate enough to have known the unforgettable and unwavering Jeni. A service of thanksgiving for the extraordinary gifts Jeni brought to all she touched will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Glebe St. James United Church in Ottawa, 650 Lyon St. South, at 11:00 a.m. The service will be followed by a reception in the Church, one that she considered a second home, and to which she gave selflessly and with grace. If desired, we know Jeni would be touched by a gift in her name to the University of Toronto Law School, or a charity that means something to you.