It is with overwhelming sadness that we announce the death of Heather Ann Steele (née McLaine). She was the beloved and loving wife of James Steele and the cherished mother of Jennifer (Frank), Susan and Peter. She was predeceased by her dear brothers Alan (survived by Tudy) and Peter (survived by Janet), and by siblings Donald and Joan, who both died in infancy. Heather was the adoring grandmother of James (Alexandra), Christopher, Elizabeth, Matthew, William, Patrick, and Leonard as well as the proud great-grandmother of Isla. She will be deeply missed by her many nieces and nephews and their families, all of whom she loved immensely.
Heather was the daughter of Leonard S. McLaine and Kathleen Lett McLaine and was born and raised in the Village of Rockcliffe Park (Ottawa). She studied English Language and Literature at the University of Toronto (Trinity College). A dedicated public servant, she worked at the Canada Council, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and the Canadian Centre for Management Development.
Heather grew up surrounded by music. She was an accomplished pianist and shared the gift of music with all her children and grandchildren. She volunteered for many years at the Ottawa Kiwanis Music Festival. During her retirement, Heather took pleasure in volunteering at Manor Park School, where she helped many young children learn to read.
Heather loved to welcome family and friends into her home and to the cottage on Lake Bernard. Her wit, warmth, and generosity will be dearly missed.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday April 26th at 2 p.m. at the Church of Saint Bartholomew, 125 McKay St., Ottawa. In remembrance of Heather, in lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Ottawa Food Bank https://www.ottawafoodbank.ca/ or The Church of Saint Bartholomew, Ottawa https://www.saintbartholomew.ca/pages/regular-offerings.
Digital Guestbook
Christopher Mitchinson
Lee-Anne & Tara
Thinking of you all during this time of loss.
Sending heartfelt condolences to James, Jenn & Frank, and the entire family. May Heather’s memory be a blessing, and may you find comfort in the love that surrounds you.
Chris and Karen McCleave
We are so sorry for the heartbreaking loss of Heather. She played so many roles in your lives. An intelligent and skilled woman, she is deeply missed by so many.
With love and sadness.
Karen and Chris McCleave (Friends of Jenn and Frank)
Bambi Ross
My love and support go out to the entire Steele family. Mrs. Steele was a lovely woman and we shared many wonderful chats over the years. All of her children and grandchildren reflect her kindness and warmth. I hope your memories of her provide you with comfort in the days ahead.
Fiona Morrison
I am so sorry for your lose Peter. I do remember meeting your mum at your family cottage. She was so lovely and I know she will be dearly missed.
Sylvia Middlebro
My heartfelt condoléances to Jim and his children and grandchildren. My world is sadly diminished with thé loss of my dearest friend.
Zoe O'Brien
Heather was a much loved friend. It was always wonderful to visit her and Jim in Ottawa and stay in their wonderful cabin by the lake with our children. We enjoyed showing Heather and Jim round our neighborhood when they came to the UK. Sending all my love to the family. With Love Zoe xx
Allan & Kathryn O'Dette
Jennifer, Susan & Peter,
We enjoyed meeting your mom on a few occasions and remember her fondly. Our condolences to all of you and the grandchildren.
Chris Chance
To the Steele family, please accept our condolences on the loss of your lovely Mum. Chris, Jennifer (Laity) and Judith (Mason) Chance
Alison Sargent
Dear Jenn and Frank,
Your DODC family is sending our condolences and thinking about you during this difficult time.
I miss you, l love you, with my heart my dear granny. Continue to rest in peace granny. From Chris.