Janet Ella Combe

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Janet Ella Combe, known affectionately as Jan, who departed this life on December 10, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta. Jan was born on May 1, 1952, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she spent her formative years before moving to Calgary to complete her high school education at Sir Winston Churchill High School.

In her early adulthood, Jan married her first husband, Tommy. Together, over their 15 year marriage,  they welcomed four sons into the world: Trent, Clint, Doug, and Ken. Jan devoted herself to raising her sons in Ladner, British Columbia, for 14 fulfilling years, after which she made the courageous decision to further her education. She pursued a Master's Degree in English as well as a Teaching Certificate at the University of Calgary.

During her time at the University of Calgary, Jan met Doug Kraft, who would become her beloved husband of 27 years. Their partnership was filled with joy and companionship, allowing them to share many cherished moments in Calgary. The couple later moved to Montreal, where Jan embraced the French language, and Doug took on an exciting opportunity to transfer with the Railway.

The family journey brought them back to Winnipeg for several years before returning to Calgary. Jan had a profound love for sewing and crafts, and she delighted in collecting clown dolls, showcasing her creativity in puppet shows for children. 

Jan was also well-known for her enduring love of animals, especially dogs, and she was rarely seen without a furry companion by her side throughout her adult life. Her devotion to her family was evident, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Doug Kraft, and her treasured sons: Clint Booth (Dana Patraschuk) of Calgary, Alberta, Doug Booth (Jessica) of Windsor, Ontario, and Ken Booth (Helen) of Carleton Place, Ontario. Jan's legacy continues through her grandchildren, including Kaity, Jake, and Bekah Booth of Sicklerville, New Jersey, and Ella and Lucy Booth of Calgary, Alberta, as well as Seba Benavides, Andrea Wood (Andy), and their daughter Lola of Carleton Place, Ontario.

Jan is survived by her sister, Judith "Judy" Bushell of Calgary, Alberta, along with her nephews Shaun Bushell (Kaylee) and Trevor Bushell, both of Calgary, Alberta, as well as her niece Terri-Anne Combe and nephew Chris Combe of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

She is predeceased by her parents, Doug and Patty Combe; and her brother Thomas Combe.

Jan's life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and kindness. She will be remembered and cherished by her family and friends.

The family asks that you consider donating to the Calgary Humane Society or another animal shelter of your choice in memory of Jan.