PATRICIA A. MCLEAN

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

PATRICIA A. McLEAN (nee PURDIE) The McLean family are saddened to announce the passing of their mother Pat on February 10, 2015. Pat was predeceased by her parents, Jack and Esther; aunts, Muriel McMurtrie, Ruth and Frances Buchanan; uncle Dr. Art Buchanan and grandson Michael Komenda. Pat is survived by her son Neil (Carolyn), granddaughter Rosanne, great-grandson Hayden, daughter Alixe (Jim), grandson Kyle Komenda and daughter Pattie McLean. Also left to mourn are many recent and lifelong friends. Pat was born in Winnipeg in 1924. Schooled at Rupertsland Girls School, graduating from the Winnipeg General Hospital in 1947. Her nursing career started at McKellar Hospital in Ft. William, Ontario. In 1948 she turned her attention to marriage and starting a family. In 1959 Pat opted to move her three children to Winnipeg, raising them as a single parent, while upgrading her nursing education to a post nursing certificate in Public Health. She was employed by the City of Winnipeg Public Health Department, retiring in 1989 from a supervisory position. Pat had a myriad of interests only limited by the opportunities life offered which were endless. Pat relished intellectual stimuli, was a supporter of the Arts and delighted experiencing other cultures and travel with her friends. She lawn bowled, golfed, curled and loved to fish, having a tackle box most were envious of. Mom was a voracious reader with her personal library including topics from astronomy to zoology. She read Isaac Asimov before anyone had ever heard of him. An avid gardener, who grew her own food and had the largest African violets ever seen. She was an active member of many groups and clubs, notably, Altrusa Women's Club and IODE, including pursuing numerous volunteer positions at the various local festivals. Mom had an amazing sense of philanthropy, supporting all charities equally. She loved, and had a plethora of pets sharing her home, including caring for injured animals until they were well. Turning a rock over to study an ant colony fascinated her, as did the wonder of nature. She could change the oil in her car, rotate the tires, and manage carpentry, plumbing, electrical upgrades with ease, even at 88. She had just purchased an IPAD, and would have mastered its use as she always kept up with and anticipated technology changes. We feel blessed to have had her for our Mother as she was born far before her time. Her positive spirit, huge dazzling smile and zest for life drew people to her. In spite of the many life challenges she faced, she operated from the perspective that you controlled your own destiny and sought continued lifelong learning and self-improvement. Her intellectual prowess, wit and sense of humour will be missed. The family wish to express their heartfelt gratitude for the end of life care provided by 5 North at the Victoria Hospital. There are truly angels who walk among us. Cremation has taken place, with no service at Mom's request. A private family service will be held at a later date. Donations in her memory are gratefully accepted at any agency providing care or rescue to animals. We Love you very much, will think of you every day and will be forever grateful for your presence in our lives and the values you have taught us. Rest In Peace Mom

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 21, 2015