Joanne MacLean, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, cousin, and friend passed away peacefully at the Ottawa General Hospital on Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020. Born in Iroquois Falls, Ontario, Joanne graduated from the Ottawa Civic Hospital School of Nursing and went on to earn her Diploma in Public Health from the University of Ottawa. Joanne and her husband, Donald MacLean, were married on November 15, 1969. Always one to put family first, she willingly moved around the country in support of her husband’s career. Joanne truly enjoyed working in the Public Health field for 32 years in Ottawa, Moncton, and Toronto. She was a thorough professional and advised many friends and relatives over the years for a variety of ailments.
However, Joanne’s greatest joy in life was her family. Although her children, Ian and Heather, live on opposite coasts and in different countries, she managed to stay close to both of them through long weekly phone calls. A devoted grandmother, Joanne especially loved spending time with her four grandchildren. She also loved reading and dancing. She and her husband, Don, won many dance contests while cruising the world together with friends. An attentive listener, she was always one to engage in conversation and easily made new friends. Joanne will be remembered for her strong, independent, and compassionate nature as well as her dedication to family.
Joanne was predeceased by her parents Émile and Edna Bélanger and her brother, Robert Bélanger. She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Donald J. MacLean, her children Ian (Irma) MacLean and Heather (Kevin Avery) MacLean and grandchildren Rachel, Cameron, Matthew, and Conor.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has
requested donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Digital Guestbook
Duncan and Janice Jamieson
Jürg and Monette Roth
Dear Don, Ian, Heather and extended Family,
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge Joanne's passing.
Please accept our sincere and heartfelt condolences!
We will keep a loving memory of Joanne as a person, a wife, a mother and a co-worker.
Yours sincerely,
Jürg & Monette
Earle and Maureen Morris
So sorry to hear the news Pinky-Maureen and I remember her fondly from our curling days back in the 70s. Our thoughts are with you.
Michael Usher
On behalf of the Usher family our deepest condolences to the family for the passing of Joanne. Many wonderful memories on Friar gate.
Dean McLean and Joan MacDonald
Don, Ian, Heather and families. No words can really express the feeling of sorrow we have for the loss of your Joanne. She was a really good friend and a wonderful person. We have great memories of all the good times we had whether it was in Florida, at the cottage, dancing, bowling or just having dinner. She loved conversation and was a good listener. She always treated Don's friends in a kind and friendly manner. She was an unique individual and will be missed by so many. Our thoughts are with you all at this very difficult time.
Mike and Darlene Andrews and family
Our sympathies to the MacLean family. Unfortunately, we've had minimal interaction. Neil MacDonald is an important part of our family and his grief (accompanied with stories from his lifelong relationship with Don), carries through.
shari ritter
Sending Sincere Condolences to All of Joanne’s Family .
I worked with Joanne at the Ottawa Home Care Program . We had great times together . Ian and Heather, Your Mother would always give me helpful tips as my sons Matthew and Jonathan were younger than you. .please know ,as you know ,Your Mother and To Don , Joanne was a special caring person . So sorry for Your loss. Shari Ritter
Linda Bordage-Belanger
Please accept my condolences for your loss! Joanne was a beautiful person when we worked together in the community!
Lorraine and Ward Miller
We send our deepest sympathy to Don and family. We have many fond memories of Joanne, she had such a beautiful smile and infectious laugh. May she rest in peace.
Denise de Zuna
Sincere condolences from the RA Bridge Club
Very sorry to get this news Don. Our thoughts are with you and your family.