Loving Local: Jean Vivian & Mark Hermanson

by Ellen Nguyen | Photos submitted by Jean Vivian

You might have seen this dynamic duo at one of their '”Fling” dances in Mission, but Jean and Mark, lifelong contributors to their community, have reconnected people through volunteering, fundraising, and organizing events.

Jean Vivian
Born in Mission in 1949, just a year after the "Great Flood of 1948," Jean Vivian has witnessed her hometown grow and flourish over the years. Back then, Mission's population was around 12,000, and it was where Jean spent her childhood, attending school and building memories. As an adult, Jean lived and worked in Mission, Kamloops, and Vancouver, but Mission always held a special place in her heart. She raised her two sons in the community she loves and retired in 2009 from her position at the University of the Fraser Valley.

One of the most significant chapters of her life involves her late husband, James Slusarchuk, who passed away in 1992. A beloved teacher and principal in Mission, James' legacy lives on through the annual golf tournament established in his name. Jean and her sons took over organizing the event, raising thousands of dollars over the years for the Mission Community Foundation. The proceeds fund an open scholarship that continues to support Mission Senior Secondary School graduates pursuing post-secondary education - an achievement Jean holds dear.

In 2016, Jean joined forces with Robert Houldsworth to organize school reunions for Mission Secondary School, focusing on the 50-year graduates. These reunions became cherished occasions, reconnecting old friends and raising funds for St. Joseph’s Food Bank. It was during this time that Jean met Mark, whom she affectionately calls the “Energizer Bunny” for his tireless contributions to the community. Together with Robert, the trio organized these reunions for four years until the pandemic paused their efforts.

Jean is also the creator of the Facebook page "Mission Secondary School Reunions," which boasts around 2,500 members. Through this platform, Jean helps former students stay connected with Mission's news, photos, and events, fostering a sense of belonging for those who have moved away. The page continues to bring people together, rekindling old friendships.

Family is central to Jean’s life. She is the proud mom of two sons and grandmother to four grandchildren- three boys and one girl. Jean also found another chapter later in life, reconnecting with a high school boyfriend and marrying him in 2019. Her love for history and storytelling extends to her volunteer work at the Archives, where she spends time preserving Mission's heritage. 

When COVID-19 restrictions eased, Jean and Mark decided to reignite community connections through dance. They launched “The Flings” at Silverdale Hall—a series of lively events that brought people together to mingle, dance, and have fun. The dances not only uplifted spirits but also raised funds for St. Joseph’s Food Bank and other local causes, making a lasting impact on Mission.

Mark Hermanson
Born in Mission in 1951, Mark Hermanson spent his childhood immersed in the community he would come to cherish throughout his life. A student at Mission Central School and later MSSS, where he graduated in 1969, Mark fondly remembers the lively dances of the late 1960s and early 1970s that brought people together.

Though he left Mission in 1974, life’s journey brought him back home in 2010, where he continues to make a difference.Mark’s life is filled with milestones that he holds close to his heart. He met his wife, Bernice, in 1973, and their love story flourished, leading to marriage in 1979. Recently, they celebrated an incredible 46 years of marriage. Together, they raised three children—a son and two daughters—whom Mark is immensely proud of.

​Academically, Mark’s path led him to graduate from SFU in 1978, followed by earning his CPA designation in 1981. Another proud chapter of his life unfolded in 2016 when, during the celebration of the 50th grad reunion for the Class of 1966, he connected with Jean and Robert. Inspired by the success of that event, Mark took the initiative to organize three more 50th reunions, each a wonderful celebration of shared memories and community.

Mark is a dedicated volunteer whose efforts reflect his passion for service. Over the years, he has contributed his time and energy to several local organizations, including the Rotary Club of Mission Midday, Mission Health Care Auxiliary (The Cottage), Mission Soapbox Derby, and St. Joseph’s Food Bank. Supporting the food bank is particularly meaningful to Mark, as he values the profound impact its staff and volunteers have on the community. For Mark, these endeavors don’t feel like work—they’re a joy that connects him with others and strengthens community bonds.

The success of the 50th reunions inspired Mark and his collaborators to launch community dances. Recognizing the demand for such events, they created a celebration that combines live music, courtesy of the band Vinyl Recall, with a deeper purpose. These events not only bring people together for a great time but also serve as fundraisers for the St. Joseph’s Food Bank and the local Rotary Club. Through these efforts, Mark and his team have raised thousands of dollars while creating cherished memories for attendees.