Jean Mink Rodak died peacefully on July 6 2025 in Toronto, wearing red lipstick, surrounded by family. She was bold, expressive, creative, colourful, generous, funny, resilient, and unfiltered. She was loved.

Jean was the wife of Avi, mother of Rina and Terri, and Savta to Zane, Bram, and Jack. She was the sister of Ben (Ingrid) and Henry (Lynne Dee), and the daughter of Yulek (z”l) and Cesia (z”l) Mink.

Jean was an artist through and through. A lifelong painter, she had a special gift with colours. She worked in acrylics, watercolours, pastels, and mixed media—often combining them on whatever surface was available. She painted on canvas, paper, tables, walls, and even denim. Her work was shown with groups including North York Visual Artists, the Toronto Watercolour Society, and at the Perivale Gallery on Manitoulin Island.

She completed her degree at OCAD University as a mature student, while raising a family and showing her work. She also taught art classes for many years and volunteered with older adults at Baycrest’s Rafelman Creative Arts Studio. She had a special way with children and often bonded with them over art projects–her crafts had a reputation. She connected with people through art, and if you spent time with her, chances are you ended up with a painting or two.

Jean’s artist soul made her curious, and she was fond of inviting new people and experiences into her life. Her open and generous hospitality was legendary among extended family and friends. No one was ever turned away. She will be missed.

The family thanks the staff at The Annex retirement home in Toronto and Chartwell Meadowbrook Retirement Community in Lively for taking care of Jean daily for the last few years. Endless gratitude to social worker Jacqueline Lyn who has been a blessing.

Memorial donations may be made to Workman Arts (https://workmanarts.com/) or Manitoulin Family Resources (https://www.mfresources.net).

Burial and Shiva will be private, but a celebration of life will be planned for the fall. If you would like to be notified about that gathering, please email teamjean2025@gmail.com and let us know how best to contact you.