Sarah Christena McGean

Born in Sydney, she was the daughter of the late Daniel Joseph and Theresa (MacNeil) MacLean. Chris is survived by her two sons, Brian and Daniel, both of Ingonish; and her daughter Wendy (John Valentine) of NDIP, Québec. Also, left to celebrate the life of “Nanny” are her granddaughters, and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Donna (Hector) Murphy, Ingonish.

Chris was predeceased by an infant daughter and her husband, Simon P. McGean, in 2017. Also preceding her, were three brothers: Malcolm MacLean, Michael (Shirley) MacLean and John MacLean, all of Sydney; three sisters, Josephine (Cameron) Sears, Margaret MacLean, Mary MacLean, all of Sydney; four brothers-in-law Amos (Louise) McGean, L’Ardoise, Leo and Jack, Ingonish and Bill (Marlene) McGean, Souris, Manitoba; and four sisters-in-law, Mary

(James) Brewer, Ingonish, Theresa (George) Robinson, Ingonish, Hattie (John) Morrison, North Sydney, and Adeline (James) Cousins, Sydney Mines.

Chris was a devoted daughter, sister, niece, cousin, wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She maintained close ties with her family and friends in Sydney, and beyond, while building a life in Ingonish. Chris will be remembered for her generous heart and dry since of humour. The door was always open with every visitor being treated to a good cup of tea, and a plate of her home-baked goods. Her oat cakes, date squares and cherry-cheese squares will be missed. She

enjoyed many card games with family and friends; and if you managed to win a game of Rummy 500 you can count yourself among the lucky few.

Chris began her career as a hairdresser with Harris’ in Sydney and continued to do hair from the family kitchen during the early years in Ingonish. She joined the laundry staff at Keltic Lodge as Seamstress in the summer 1969 and retired from the position of Executive Housekeeper after 25 years of service in 1994. Known for her dedication, exacting standards and eye for detail throughout her career, Chris’ professional mission was to ensure that every guest enjoyed five star accommodations.

Post retirement, she enjoyed taking evening walks with the love of her life, doting on her grandchildren, and crafting gifts for family and friends. Her children and grandchildren will always treasure their beautiful hand-sewn quilts and knitted afghans. Chris was a devoted and faithful member of Saint Peter’s Parish, Ingonish for 66 years. Actively involved with the Alter Society, Choir, Extraordinary Ministries, and The Catholic Women’s League, she lived a rich spiritual life. Dedicated to her faith, family and career, Chris lived a life of meaning, generosity and grace.

The McGean family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Buchanan Memorial Hospital and The Highland Manor for their compassion and exceptional care for our mother, grandmother, sister and aunt during her stay. God Bless.

Family flowers only, please. Donations in Chris's memory may be made to The Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation, Buchanan Memorial Hospital Foundation, North of Smokey Palliative Care Society, St Peter’s Parish Building Fund or the charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fillmore and Whitman Funeral Home. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 24th at 11:00am in St. Peter’s Parish, Ingonish. At Chris’s request there will be no visitation; however, family will receive visitors at St. Peter’s Parish beginning at 10:00 am, prior to the service. The interment will follow, in the parish cemetery. Celebrant, Rev. Jonas Uwaezuoke. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.fillmoreandwhitman.com.