Obituary of Heather Jean McLEAN

Heather was born in Calgary, Alberta at the Holy Cross Hospital to Elsie and Hugh McLean. She is survived by her twin, Bruce Hugh McLean, who was born first by ten minutes. She attended Pleasant Heights United Church Kindergarten where she was taught by Mrs. Eileen Sproule who was regarded as an exceptional teacher; she attended King George Elementary School from grades one to nine and lived half a block from the school where mom could watch her go to and from school. She participated in the School Choir and sang in many city wide competitions at the Southern Jubilee Auditorium where they won every time due to the discipline and high expectations of Mrs. Calloway. Heather participated in the Oddfellows & Rebeccas bowling leagues, winning many trophies during their tournaments. High School education years were spent at Crescent Heights, where Heather participated in the Latin Club and was on School Council in grade ten. She was involved in the Calgary Aquabelle Synchronized Swimming Club and competed in many competitions, winning several team awards. Heather completed her four year matriculation graduating in 1970 and was accepted at the University of Calgary, but then became ill and was not able to carry on with her education. She was employed with the Canadian Associated Travellers as a secretary for approximately two years. Heather married Lou Landry on July 3, 1976; and they had a son, Ryan James Landry on October 1, 1978. Heather and Lou divorced in 1979. Ryan lives with his dog, Kyerra and his cat, in Toronto. Heather worked in many capacities for several organizations. Heather was involved with the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta for over twelve years, in several capacities especially the pier support outreach, Unsung Heroes Group and participated in a play 'Starry, Starry Night' which was a production that conveyed how people with Schizophrenia experienced their treatment and how the medical professionals and public perceptions made them feel, which was presented to different schools, communities, and other venues to educate the public and strive to remove the stereotype for individuals with Schizophrenia. Heather loved to go on the organized outings through the Schizophrenic Society. She loved the social camaraderie on those trips. Heather formed some very special friendships in her life. Michelle and Heather shared a special bond as friends and coworkers. She especially enjoyed travelling. Bruce & Heather went on many trips together. Holidays were spent seeking out special places to explore and experience for example Waterton Park, The Temple Gardens Spa in Moose Jaw, One of the last special trips was to Radium, Fairmont Hot Springs and Invermere, where they saw a movie at the Toby Theatre, that was thoroughly enjoyed especially by Heather. Family vacations were always tradition in their family which was continued throughout their lives. Heather took great pride in her home. Bruce and Heather worked together in the garden and loved the flowers in the summer. Heather loved to help people; she was giving, thoughtful, genuinely caring about those who needed someone to be there for them and was always there with the biggest smile and open personality that drew them in to her. Dr. Hursts care was always greatly appreciated, as well as, Joan Perkins from the Garnett Center who shared a special friendship and support with Heather. Heather always took responsibility for her health and her life to strive to be the best she could be.