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Jennifer Vigfusson

JENNIFER VIGFUSSON
August 12, 1975 – November 26, 2025
Jennifer was born on August 12, 1975 in Vancouver British Columbia, her passing lays heavy on our hearts.
She leaves behind three children, Tim, Hannah, and Emma Vigfusson; husband Kenneth Vigfusson; mother Judy Rowluk; parents-in-law Shiela and Kenneth Vigfusson; as well as countless other family, friends, and colleagues.
Here is a very brief summary of the life of Jennifer Vigfusson.
From an early age it was clear that she had a unique spirit. Family and friends often recall a time during spring break at polo park, there was a contest and Jennifer, Mandy, and Josh dressed as the Muppets and performed in front of a bunch of people and sang the Muppet song (mnah manh bup du bup duh) and got second prize and even the judges thought they should’ve gotten first. As time went on, this public confidence never changed, she was very forward and if she wanted to say something you know she would’ve just said it. On another account she was very bold in her fashion statements as a child she would walk to school and if it was raining, she would wear her brock-a-brella. If it wasn’t a brock-a-brella years later she would go to South Beach casino with her friends in princess dresses or with a moomoo and a wig. Some would say she wore this as joke, but I believe it was a firm expression of her fashion. This shows her confidence in herself and how comfortable she was as a person.
Throughout her life, Jennifer dedicated herself to her family, her garden and her career. Whether she was tending to the garden, raising a family or coming home from a long day at the hospital, she approached everything with a sense of purpose. She had a passion for camping, playing cards, or reading a book while everyone would be watching the jets game. something that brought her joy and often connected her with others.
But perhaps her greatest achievements weren’t the things she did—but the way she made people feel. You always left an interaction with Jennifer feeling more fulfilled, connected, and loved
I’d like to share a few stories that capture the essence of who Jennifer was.
Jennifer would live for her time with her family she enjoyed her weekend card nights in the screenhouse, this often consisted of the parents and the kids sitting around a table with a few drinks and playing her favorite card game shangy. We would also play frustration rummy, crib, or president. We would play for hours while playing her favorite music. These moments were permanently cemented in everyone’s mind. The screenhouse was her happy place, our home away from “home”. Where we could escape the world, play music way too loud and enjoy the company of our family. Often getting lost in the music and maybe a few too many cocktails these nights were the moments everyone looked forward to at the end of the week, the tragically hip playing and karaoke all night these were the memories that will be cherished for the rest of our lives.
Along with the card nights Jennifer would often visit with all the kid’s friends who naturally found their way into the screenhouse or even bothered her in her bedroom, to share their stories with her. Often resulting in her saying “I should not be hearing this I am your mother” yet this was not enough of a deterrence with everyone sharing their issues with her. She truly was a mother to not just her own family.
However, she had her true home, Birds Hill. This campground was her place to relax, read, and enjoy her summer. The family would spend the entire summer out there throughout their lives. From the campfires to the beach days, she found a way to make every day trip as complex as possible. Bathing suits and towels were not enough for a beach day. We needed sandwiches, picnic blankets, waters, juice boxes, chips, floaties, books, and everything else in between. This perfectly sums up Jennifer, no day too small she had to be prepped to host and cater to a group of 100. She always had to make sure each day was special.
With Christmas coming up, it reminds us of our family vacation over Christmas and New Year’s. Let me say one thing first, don’t give the Vigfusson family a 2-week open bar. From the late-night partying to the midday siestas, she was a part of it all. Let me tell you all, she liked her dancing often joining the kids club in their daily dance routines and singing “don’t stop believing” in front of 100 people she was never worried to take opportunities as they came. This is who she was, one for the party, one for the fun, and one for the family.
On a different note, she had her obsession with pets. From dogs to gerbils, she had them all, often protested by Tim and ken however she brushed this off. It seemed like every few weeks there was a new animal running around. Often without my approval, not that it mattered, she would find a way to smuggle in a new cat. And strangely I will miss this, not the new pets of course but her spontaneous nature, waking up each day expecting a new adventure, or just a relaxing day, it was always unknown.
To summarize it all, I know everyone can relate to most, if not all of these stories and seeing her personality bleed through everything she’s done. I cannot fit any more stories or we would be here for a lifetime so let these few, be nothing but a brief reminder of who this woman really was. I’m sure everyone here could find a story of our own that would tell us how special she is, but let this not remind us of what we are missing but what we once had.
When we think about legacy, we often think of achievements or milestones. But Jennifer’s true legacy lives on in the lives she touched. It lives on in the lessons she taught us: how to love, how to care, and how to forgive. It lives on in the traditions she passed down, the values she instilled, and the love she offered so freely. It lives on in the quiet ways we find ourselves speaking like her, acting like her, or remembering her advice before making a big decision.
Losing Jennifer leaves a space in our lives that cannot truly be filled. Grief is the price we pay for love, and our hearts ache because our love for her is so deep. But although her physical presence is gone, the meaning of her life and the memories she gave us remain. We honor her not just with tears, but by living in a way that reflects the best of who she was.
Jennifer's family kindly requests that all of her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.
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Memories, Stories and Condolences
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33 Comments
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Karen
December 17, 2025 at 2:36 PM
Jen was my educator in the ICU course. I felt so very lucky to spend time with and learn from her. She was so upbeat, funny, thoughtful, and most of all, caring. Even though I was struggling with the course at times, she gave me the confidence and pep talks to keep going. My sincerest condolences to all her family and friends.

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Jen de Castro-Nguyen
December 16, 2025 at 10:42 AM
Jenn was a wonderful, positive person who I was lucky enough to work with on Medicine for a few years then again as a colleague as an educator. When I picture Jenn, I see her big happy smiles & still can hear her laughter. My sincerest condolences to Jenn's family. She will truly be missed.

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Manpreet Kaler
December 14, 2025 at 4:23 PM
My sincerest condolences to Jenn's family. I worked with Jenn in ICU and she was such an amazing mentor and colleague. One of my favorite nurses to work with. She was so easy going, friendly and dependable. Rest in peace Jenn. Will miss you.

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Beverley Collins
December 14, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Dear Ken, Tim, Hannah, Emma, and Judy. Jennifer was a beautiful woman, an amazing wife, mother, and daughter. May all the wonderful memories of Jennifer help you through this difficult time. The Vigfusson family were very good neighbors and I will always remember Jennifer for her kindness shown to me. I send my heartfelt sympathy to all of Jenn's family, friends, and colleagues. Rest in peace dear Jennifer.

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Kim Esopenko
December 13, 2025 at 9:35 AM
A Beautiful Soul. worked laughed cried with Jenn. But mostly laughed!! Rest well

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Student
December 12, 2025 at 4:47 PM
Very honoured to have been Jenn's ICU student. Learned a lot from her and will never forget her amazing presence. May she rest in peace.

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Lori
December 11, 2025 at 2:45 PM
Jen was an absolute pleasure to work with .
So sad 😭
Lori from way back when at Pembina Veterinary Hospital.

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Julie Rowluk
December 11, 2025 at 1:35 PM
♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️




Julie Rowluk
December 11, 2025 at 1:32 PM
Some special memories, camping in clear lake and visiting Granny and Grandpa in Swan River.





Julie Rowluk
December 11, 2025 at 1:22 PM
While processing this immense loss, I've had a multitude of memories come flooding back. As a cousin, Jenn was nothing short of amazing. Always eager to spend time together, try out a new hairstyle and guaranteed to have an abundance of belly laughs. As a mother, she was the ultimate mama bear. She was so proud of Tim, Hannah and Emma, and radiant when she spoke of them. Jenn guided Drew and I on our parenting journey of Ramona without criticisms and much humour. She was always available for a chat and advice and has helped shape me into the person I am during my most formative years. Aunty Judy, Ken, Tim, Hannah and Emma, my heart hurts for you. Jenn has left a legacy of love and i hope you find comfort in that love she has left behind. I will miss you FooFoo♥️
With so much love and care,
Julie (Julabee)



Pat Cuddy
December 10, 2025 at 12:18 PM
Judy, so very sorry to learn of your great loss. I know Jennifer and her family were a huge part of your life.

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Uncle Ken
December 9, 2025 at 1:57 PM
Love from Uncle Ken
she was taken from us too early. For that I am sad. Jennifer
leaves wonderful memories that will be there for ever. For that I am grateful. We were very close and I am proud to have been her
" Uncle Ken".
Luv to Judy,Ken,Hannah,Emma,Tim.
A toast to Jennifer. Vodka and coke!

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Shelly
December 8, 2025 at 11:14 PM
September 2018



Lynette
December 8, 2025 at 7:44 PM
Adding another photo of Jen



Lynette Nazar (Hawrysh)
December 8, 2025 at 7:41 PM
I had the honor of getting to know Jen while working at the old veterinary clinics. Jen had this contagious, positive and upbeat energy that made everyone feel welcome. She lit up a room with her smile.
I have many fond memories of our adventures over the years, from folk fest to October fest and various bbq's (johnny no thumbs).
If Jen was there, it was always a good time.
I'm shocked and saddened to hear of her passing and send my deepest condolences to her family and mom, Judy. She will be missed 😢



Erin
December 8, 2025 at 3:02 PM
Jen's sense of humor is something I will always remember. A true professional who also had fun at work and was a joy to be at work with. She will be missed by so many. Condolences to all her loved ones and family.

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Erica Cameron
December 8, 2025 at 2:45 PM
What a wonderful person gone too soon. Jen was so effortlessly funny and lit up a any room. Condolences to her friends and family.

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Taryn Naherniak
December 8, 2025 at 12:08 PM
Beautiful person, worked with her for years. Brief summary so wonderful and true to her. Will miss her very much and my heart goes out to her hubby and kids. That was her joy - family.

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Heather Mahoney, colleague of Judy from VGH
December 8, 2025 at 11:23 AM
Judy and family, I am so deeply saddened for your great loss. Working with Judy over the years we all heard many many fond stories of Jennifer and felt like we knew her. I am so very sorry to hear of her passing. You have the best memories and her legacy will live on. Hugs to you all.
Heather Mahoney

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Mande Hay
December 7, 2025 at 12:35 PM
50 years of memories so it's hard to put it into words. Everything from Me Nama nah at polo park, garage sale shopping on our bikes to having families having adventures in Mexico and both becoming Nurses. Jennifer has taught me so much over the years but I think being yourself, live life to its fullest and always remember to find a way laugh and to love.. My heart is breaking for Ken, the kids and Aunty Judy. I love you all. Jen you will be missed more then you ever knew.

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Sherry Kolthof
December 7, 2025 at 12:35 PM
Jennifer wasn't just a friend; she was family. Losing her leaves an ache I can'r put into words, but I will carry her spirit with me-the joy she brought, the love she gave, and the countless moments that made our 15 years of friendship meaningful.
Our sincere condolences to you all, Ken, Tim, Hannah, Emma and Nana.



Joan Wilton - nursing colleague of Judy Rowluk
December 7, 2025 at 7:22 AM
I experienced love as I read this tribute to your beautiful daughter, Judy. Sincere condolences to you and Jennifer's family and friends.

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Karen Sadler
December 6, 2025 at 6:44 PM
The world has lost a beautiful daughter, wife, mother, nurse and friend. I got to know Jennifer while working at St. Boniface Hospital. She was the real deal: smart, honest, compassinate, funny and an amazing nurse!
She has left us way too soon and my sincere condolences go to her family at this time.

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Shelly "The Ripster" Ripley
December 6, 2025 at 4:43 PM
I had the privelege of working with Jen both on medicine and in critical care. She had the best laugh and I loved hearing her stories about the kids and her pets. One story that sticks out is the April Fool's Day she gave the kids brussels sprouts decorated to look like cake pops :) Rest easy Jen, you will be so missed.

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Syd and Barb Kowall
December 6, 2025 at 1:41 PM
Our deepest condolences to you Ken and your family.
May her memory be a blessing.

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Lynn Gillson and Gary Hanson
December 6, 2025 at 1:22 PM
Please accept our sincere sympathy on such a monumental loss. We knew Jennifer because our grandson played hockey with Tim. Always friendly, positive and the most glorious smile. We wish you peace and you are in our prayers.

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Aunty Debby
December 6, 2025 at 11:34 AM
So hard to try and fit in this space how I feel about Jennifer.. she was my 4th kid and I just close my eyes and can see her smile and hear her unique laugh.Being her Aunty Debby was one of my greatest joys and being her Godmother was indeed an honor.
There were so so many good times, some sad times we shared but I think the best memory of all was the nite we danced and sang with a "Turkey Baster" in hand as our microphone. Love you Jenny foo foo for always..❤️



Bonnie Kibalski
December 6, 2025 at 11:31 AM
Jennifer was such an amazing person and I am so grateful to have worked with her and known her. She had a way of always making me feel good when things were tough. Her infectious laugh and smile... Or just by saying "You're Good! You got this!". Many memories of how she put herself first but, most off all her pride was in her family and we all knew what was going on in their lives as that was hers.
Forever missed my so many. Rest in Peace Angel. 🩷

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Isabel Moncado and family.
December 6, 2025 at 11:06 AM
We are so saddened to hear of Jennifer's passing, she was an absolute amazing person and we are so grateful we had opportunity to know her. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time❤️

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Shannon LaCasse
December 6, 2025 at 9:36 AM
From the moment I met Jenn I knew she was special and I got the impression she knew it too. She said what was on her mind. At work she once told me to "Get out of my room", I knew this was her way of saying, "I got this" but as I left the room I remember thinking I love this friend who speaks her mind! We often laughed about her kicking me out that day and I knew it was a privilege to call Jenn my friend. I will miss hanging out with her and her family on the deck. I will miss her epic parties. Many hearts are broken. She will be missed enormously and never forgotten! RIP Jenn. Condolences to Jenn's family who she loved the most.

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Thuy Ho
December 6, 2025 at 9:22 AM
I worked with Jennifer in Medicine unit many years ago and never forgot her smile . She always cheered up the room with her smile. My sincere condolences to you and your family !

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Shelley Dolbeck
December 6, 2025 at 1:14 AM
It was an honor to have worked along side Jen. Her smile cintravenous and warm, couldn't help but smile alongside. Her energy lit rooms she walked into. So sorry for the loss of this amazing woman. Sincere condolences to her family, friends and numerous colleagues. Heaven gained a beautiful soul.

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JoAnne Williams
December 5, 2025 at 9:38 PM
We loved Jennifer, will miss her so much. She was so kind to me, Carla, Kenzie and Kyley. our hearts are broken to have someone so special gone when she had so much to offer.. Never forgotten Jen. Love Aunty Jo-Anne




