Isabelle Ethel (Marchbank) McLean

Isabelle Ethel McLean passed away at Portage District General Hospital on  Oct 23rd, 2019 at the age of 93 yrs.

Isabelle is survived by her daughter Barb (Dan), and sons Jack (Dianne), Allan, and Scott (Catherine), 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren, 2 brothers, Jack, Allan (Verna) as well as numerous extended family members and friends. She was pre-deceased by her parents, husband John ( Jack), son Tom, and grandson Allan.

Isabelle was born and raised in Woodville, P.E.I. The family relocated to Bible Hill, Truro, Nova Scotia. From there she moved to Montreal for work where she met the love of her life, Jack McLean. They were married in Truro and moved back to Portage to begin their married life.

 She raised five children and they were the focus of her life! Mom was an excellent cook always able to serve delicious meals at a short notice. She tried her hand at sewing, even joining the Sewing Circle, but gave it up when she sewed her first garment backwards and upside down.

Isabelle was a member of the Girl Guides of Canada, leader of a Portage troop for many years. She was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church since arriving in Portage la Prairie. As a couple, they square danced out of the Southside Community Club and Elks Hall.

Mom (Nanny) was the core of our family, her strength will be missed. We will treasure memories of her kindness, encouragement and beautiful smile.. During Nanny’s working life she was the main receptionist for the Portage Clinic, working for Drs. Thomas, Fairfield and Hamlin.  Nanny also tried her hand at a small day care with her grandson (Cam) being the only one.  After her husband Jack’s retirement, she spent every winter for 15 years in Apache Junction, Arizona.  She enjoyed life and always looked forward to the next adventure.  Her favourite saying was “Hi, I’m Isabelle, and you are?”

 A celebration of Isabelle's life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church 17 Royal Road S. Portage la Prairie on Saturday November 16th at 2pm. Private family interment will take place at the Hillside Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the medical staff at Portage Hospital especially Dr. M. Omichinski. Another thank you to Mom’s neighbours who always looked out for her and helped with outside chores. We feel blessed!

If friends so desire, donations in memory of Isabelle may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #65 375 Duke Ave. Portage la Prairie, Mb. R1N 0S5 , and the First Presbyterian Church 17 Royal Road South, Portage la Prairie, Mb R1N 0S5.

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