Jean Marie Ciriani lived a charmed life from June 5, 1964 to May 21, 2009. Born to loving parents John and Lorna Ciriani in Trail and raised in Kamloops, she was grateful for her close relationships with her two brothers (David and Gerry) and later their families: Rebecca (nee Fulton), Danielle and Jordan; Catherine (nee McGregor), Amelia and Ethan. She married Jeff Christensen in October 2006, which brought immeasurable joy (and "no compromises") to her life, along with ten new siblings, eleven nieces and nephews, and numerous new friends to add to her already large collection of extended family and friends, all dearly cherished by Jean. Jean was a dedicated professional, devoting much of her career to public education, first as a reporter, later as a consultant and finally as Director of Communications with the BC School Trustees Association. Following her diagnosis with metastatic breast cancer in 1998, Jean added an MBA in communications and public relations management to her credentials, which included a certificate in journalism and a BA in political science. She was also a fantastic cook and seamstress and consummate host. While her life was shortened by cancer, Jean would like to be remembered for how she lived and not for merely "surviving" for so long with the disease that ended her life. Many thanks to the doctors who provided her with such excellent care throughout her illness, especially Dr. Allan (Victoria) and Dr. Shenkier (Vancouver). A Celebration of her Life will be held Saturday, June 6, 2009 from 4pm-8pm at 2605 Pender St. East, Vancouver. No flowers, please. Donations to a scholarship in Jean's name via the B.C.S.T.A. at 604-734-2721