Heather Ann Steele

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 26^th 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.