Hazeldean Gardens isn’t part of a large chain. It’s a locally-owned family business developed and operated by Wit Lewandowski, his wife Terry, his cousin Vicki Jackson and her husband Murray, and the Jackson’s son Allan. Over the past 20 years they have successfully built and managed two other retirement residences – Rideau Gardens in Ottawa, and Quinte Gardens in Belleville.
Pictured above {left to right) are Vicki Jackson, Murray Jackson, Allan Jackson, Wit Lewandowski and Terry Lewandowski.
Wit Lewandowski, President of Hazeldean Gardens, is a registered pharmacist who owned and operated Rideau Pharmacy in Ottawa’s Sandy Hill area for over 25 years. Since selling the pharmacy, he has continued to work part-time as a pharmacist in order to stay current with recent developments in the field, particularly in the area of seniors’ care. He has also furthered his education to become one of only 400 Board Certified Geriatric Pharmacists in Canada. Apart from this, he has personally overseen the architectural design of Hazeldean Gardens, and he is continually investigating design features to make the residence more age-friendly for seniors.
Murray Jackson, President of Eastridge Management Services, managed both Rideau Gardens and Quinte Gardens in partnership with Mr. Lewandowski. Mr. Jackson is a graduate of Harvard Business School, and prior to his involvement in seniors’ housing, held senior executive positions with several major Canadian public and private sector corporations.
Allan Jackson, is President of Capital Commercial Investment, a commercial real estate and advisory firm. As a partner in Hazeldean Gardens he brings his experience as a real estate professional specializing in seniors’ housing while acting on behalf of developers, buyers, and sellers. He is able to assist potential residents of Hazeldean Gardens, who may have a home to sell prior to their move.
Terry Lewandowski was also a Pharmacist, having spent most of her career working in a hospital setting. She and Vicki Jackson have overseen many of the design features of the building, along with providing personal decorating touches to make Hazeldean Gardens feel like an elegant, yet warm and inviting home.
In total there are nearly a dozen extended family members involved in the operation of Hazeldean Gardens. Some would say the organization chart resembles a family tree. But it’s not a case of nepotism. Every member of the team is extremely well qualified for their role, and they are committed to work together in providing the highest possible standard of care and services to their residents. In fact, their aim is to be recognized as the premier retirement residence in Eastern Ontario.
