Jacalyn Zeljeznak

With profound sadness, the family of Jacalyn Zeljeznak announce her sudden passing on the evening of Friday, October 7th, 2022 from a heart complication. 

Jacalyn was born to Marge and Bernard Slugoski in Yorkton, Saskatchewan on July 9th, 1975. The youngest of four daughters, she grew up on the family farm. Jackie attended Preeceville School and was an excellent student. Her drive for learning never ended. She was involved in many school activities including sports such as volleyball, basketball and lacrosse. Jackie also spent many hours figure skating at the local rink. She moved to Saskatoon at 18 to begin studies in an area which she was always passionate about- dental care. Jackie completed her Dental Assistant course and practiced at several clinics. In 2000, she moved to Edmonton and completed her Dental Hygiene degree at the University of Alberta. At that point, she loved to travel, shop, workout, and also took a keen interest in investment properties. 

In 2010, Jacalyn met and fell in love with John Zeljeznak. They married on November 10th, 2012 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in beautiful Fort Edmonton Park. She joined John in Drayton Valley and together they built their life, surrounding themselves with good friends and building their dental practice. Jacalyn also enjoyed her time working with Alberta Health.

Nothing made Jacalyn happier than her three sweet children. She devoted her days to them in every way. Sofija was born June 28th, 2014, Madeline on January 16th, 2016 and Luke came along on February 1st, 2018. An amazing mom, she adored them and showed them love in so many ways. 

Together, John and Jacalyn developed many close family friendships in Drayton Valley and she contributed to the community and church through volunteer activities. She could be found helping at the school, assisting a friend, or serving on a committee like the Pembina Physicians Recruitment and Retention Committee. She loved baking, cooking and making her home beautiful and comfortable. There were often guests at her table. Jackie had an incredible sense of humour and her kind and generous ways drew people to her. Recently, Jackie loved refinishing furniture as this interest gave her peace with a purpose. 

Jacalyn leaves to mourn many people who deeply loved her: her husband of nearly 10 years, John, her three children, Sofija, Madeline and Luke, her father Bernard, sisters Tracy (Rod), Tammy (Rich), Kimberley (Chris), niece Aubrie and nephews Eric and Benjamin. She was recently predeceased by her mother, Marge, in December. Also mourning her loss are John’s family: Bill and Dorothy Zeljeznak, brother Peter (Danielle) and sister Laura (Roger) and her nieces Chloe, Amy, Alexa, and Ariel. Jackie’s loss is also felt deeply by her aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends that she so treasured.

A viewing will be held at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church in Drayton Valley on Tuesday, October 25th, 2022 at 11:00 AM. A funeral mass will follow at 1:00 PM with Father Felix presiding. Arrangements are entrusted to Athabasca Community Chapel.

Livestream: https://www.facebook.com/Remembering-Jacalyn-Zeljeznak-104542232455863

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jacalyn Zeljeznak, please visit our Tree Store.