Lowering the Flag: Jeanne Lougheed
The University of Alberta banner is flying at half-mast from January 5–7, 2021 in remembrance of Ms. Jeanne Lougheed, alumna and supporter of the arts including the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Centre for the Performing Arts in Camrose, Alberta.
Jeanne Lougheed
At age 92, after a long and remarkable life, Jeanne Lougheed (nee Rogers) has passed away. She will be dearly missed by her children; Stephen (Mary), Andrea, Pam (Frank), and Joe (Vivian) and by her grandchildren; Kathleen and Meredith, Eryn, Trevor and Dylan, and James and Cleo.
Jeanne was the daughter of pioneer physician Dr. Lawrence Rogers and Estelle Rogers and grew up in Camrose and Edmonton, Alberta.
Jeanne excelled in her Fine Arts degree program at the University of Alberta, active in voice and theatre. She soon caught the eye of Peter Lougheed, also U of A student, who had a love for sports. A date at the U of A “Tuck Shop” began their courtship. It was through Jeanne’s eyes that Peter came to appreciate the world of music, ballet, opera, and theatre — although she couldn’t quite teach him to sing in key. Peter taught Jeanne to appreciate sports, but she never attempted the spiral toss. Jeanne Rogers wed Peter Lougheed in Edmonton in 1952.
Jeanne supported Peter’s business and legal career and later his pursuit in politics. In 1971 Peter became the first Progressive Conservative Premier in Alberta’s history. Jeanne took on a public role, supporting many causes throughout the province, particularly in arts and culture. With the loving nudge of Jeanne, Peter’s new government created the first Ministry of Culture and later the Alberta Foundation for the Arts.
Jeanne was an active supporter of the Edmonton and Calgary Symphony Orchestras, the Alberta Ballet, and especially the Banff Centre of the Arts. She supported the establishment of the Banff Television Festival, now the Banff World Media Festival. She was an active supporter of the National Ballet of Canada.
During the establishment of Kananaskis Country Jeanne, along with other key supporters, advocated that Alberta’s newest mountain recreation area should be accessible to those with physical and developmental disabilities, leading to the development of the William Watson Lodge. The Lodge to this day provides barrier free access to the majesty of the Canadian Rockies.
After Peter Lougheed left public life in 1985 Jeanne continued to play an active role in many areas. She was a Director of the Canada Council of the Arts, served as a member of numerous corporate boards, and supported many civic and national organizations.
Jeanne received numerous honours: Fellow of the Banff Centre, Fellow of the Royal Conservatory of Music, recipient of the Alberta Motion Pictures Industry Association Achievement Award, recipient of the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Award for support to Alberta’s museums and cultural sector, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for her lifelong support of arts and culture in Canada. Two buildings in Alberta honour her service: the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Building at the Banff Centre and the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre in Camrose. The Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Scholarships at the Banff Centre will perpetuate their desire to help others in their training for generations to come.
Jeanne touched all who knew her with her warmth, grace, and generosity. She loved to welcome family and friends to their cozy home for tea and cheese biscuits and a good chat, a summer barbecue, or a festive dinner. With her ready smile and personal touch, she had a way of infusing splashes of charm, sparkle, and sophistication to every gathering she hosted.
Above all Jeanne was our Mom and Grandmother (Mimi). Mimi inspired us all with her compassion, strength, vibrant spirit, and passion for the arts. She gave her children and grandchildren the gifts of love, laughter, and special family gatherings that we will always remember with fondness and gratitude.
The family expresses a special heartfelt thank you to Bethany Riverview staff for the exceptional care they provided Jeanne in the last year of her life. We are truly grateful.
A Celebration of Life will take place when circumstances allow. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Jeanne’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.
— Obituary originally published by The Edmonton Journal.
For information about lowering the University of Alberta banner, visit the In Memoriam webpage.
