I just read of Annabelle's passing in the Alberta Retired Teachers' Association Magazine.

I knew Annabelle when I was appointed to the Sports Hall of Fame in the 1980's. She was

a legend.

I enjoyed attending the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame dinners with Joan French (deceased) and many others

We were often seated at Annabelle's table. I recall phoning her in 2019 to see if she needed a ride to Red Deer for the banquet.

She said "And back?" That was a great laugh. However, she said someone was taking her and we would visit at the

Banquet. Annabelle always looked so stunning and classy at that event.

2020 was a different year and I know everyone missed the Sport friendships at the Banquet.

2021 was a year of sadness for Annabelle's family, and I send my heartfelt sympathy to everyone.

She was a jewel for sure, a true Sport Visionary, and yes, super talented. It saddens me to lose another Sport friend.

Ardell J. Clark-Tronnes Calgary

Jerry and I are very sorry to hear of the death of Annabelle and send our condolences as her great and generous spirit will surely be missed. Annabelle was an inspirational woman and a joy to talk with at church and retreats. She was gifted with a strong sense of justice and a love for all, even those who 'annoyed the hell out of her'. She was kind when I needed it and a blessing to talk to. She left the world a better place.

Billie Thurston

It is with a heavy heart and much love that I honour my friend, Annabelle Mclean - everyone's favourite teacher, colleague, family member and friend.

I will always be grateful for Anna's guidance, support and vast knowledge while I was teaching at North Haven Elementary. Memories of her legendary burnt toast in the staff room, awesome PhysEd classes, witty jokes and stories, and above all, her unwavering dedication to her students and teaching craft will remain with me forever.

Dear Annabelle, you will be greatly missed, especially at our annual luncheons. May you rest in comfort and peace.

Judy Fung.

With great sadness, I just heard from Judy Fung of Anna's passing. I have thought of her often over the years and of the positive impact she had our team and myself while we we worked together at North Haven Elementary. I want to share a conversation I had with Anna about a year and a half ago at Dr. Kelly's, our chiropractor's, office. I told her that whenever I struggled with a tough decision, I used to go seek out her wisdom. She had an amazing ability to think outside the box and consider possible solutions. (This was not a strength for my concrete, sequential brain.) I knew she would always be honest, helpful and also not be-little my need to ask. I also thanked her for her invaluable assistance in teaching me skills to use when working on novel studies with my students. I continued to use that knowledge for many years. I will dearly miss the sincere visits we would have at The Winter Club North Haven re-unions. Vicky Wazynick

I worked with Mrs. McLean as a volunteer at North Haven Elementary School in Calgary for many years when my two kids attended back in the 1980s! She was an exceptional person and an absolutely wonderful & caring teacher. My two kids loved her and still to this day (at the ages of 47 & 49) talk about how she influenced their lives and bring up stories of experiences they had while attending her classes or just simply being in the school when she was there. I haven't seen her for many many years but always recall the time I was involved in the volunteer program at the school and the many conversations we had about any number of subjects. I am so sorry to hear of her passing and I pass along my deepest sympathy & sincerest condolences to her entire family.

Annabelle (to me Mrs. McLean) was such an amazing person and teacher. Her personal warmth and strength was only matched by her commitment to those around her. I do not exaggerate when I say her acceptance and confidence in my ability has been something I’ve drawn upon periodically in my life.

She seem to have the loudest classroom at North Haven Elementary School. But she had our love, admiration and respect. She was everyone’s favourite teacher for good reason. We all learned while having lots of fun. Fitness through play and competition we’re always emphasized and it’s something I bring into my life.

My spouse and I were lucky enough to reconect with her in 2019. It was great to hang out with her as an adult. Her welcoming personality and charm had such a profound impact on my daughter that she wants to be just like Mrs. McLean (an athlete and teacher).

I know my spouse would agree when I say we are far, far better for knowing Annabelle McLean. I know my kids would agree too.

She will be missed.

Annabelle was a wonderful person to meet on any occasion. Her continuous wit, charm, enthusiasm was a pleasant welcome and inspiration to many. She will be missed. Condolences to all who had the opportunity to share moments with her.

April Wallace

Peggy, Wendy and Billy. I am so very sorry for your loss. Annabelle was such a great person. She will be missed.

Jimmy and Shirley. I am very sorry for the loss of Annabelle.

Thinking of you all

Pat Gordon.

A kind and gentle mentor to a young administrator at North Haven School, always pointing me in the direction of “what’s best for kids”. Dearly missed. Hugs, Greg Lewis

I was the Office Administrator at Wild Rose United Church when Annabelle bought a print of “Canadian (Noah’s) Ark” which she intended to eventually give to Wendy. When the church was renovated she brought the print in as a loan for the Office wall. She saw how much I liked it. At my retirement party she placed it on the table with the cards. So like Annabelle! I have it over my mantle and look at it everyday. It reminds me of her generous spirit. I was blessed to have known her. - Kate Reeves

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and mentor Annabelle McLean. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Murray/McLean family at this difficult time. Annabelle was a woman of warm, radical welcome caring for her family, her students and her Church community. Her warm smile and open heart were an invitation to authentic relationship and abundant community. She was a loving daughter, athlete, wife, mother, teacher, mentor and friend to many. Those of us that encountered her presence were graced with a genuine personality. Annabelle was a lifelong learner who was willing to change her perspective and adapt to new ways of thinking and knowing. She loved her family, her home and her community. Thank you, Anna, for gracing our lives.

Barbara Grant and Doug Francis