Isabel Gertrude McConnell

Born in Carmel, Saskatchewan, on August 5, 1932, to Louis and Isabelle (Flory) Steeg. Isabel grew up in a large household of 13 children, where music and the gift of song were cherished. She attended St. Augustine Elementary School and continued her education into high school. Throughout her early years, Isabel’s love of music flourished as she sang alongside her sisters, Marge and Grace, for school and church events under the guidance of the Ursuline Nuns, which she often fondly recalled.

After high school, Isabel worked at a jewelry store in Humboldt before meeting the love of her life, Russell McConnell. The two were married on September 16, 1954, and together, they created a family that was the cornerstone of Isabel’s life. Their first child, Gwen Marie, was born in Humboldt in 1955. The young family then embarked on a new adventure, relocating to Melville, Saskatchewan, where they spent several happy years. Russell and Isabel found great joy in gardening, earning awards of recognition for their creativity and landscaping.

As their family grew, Isabel and Russell welcomed three sons: Garry Merlin in 1958, Robert Louis in 1964, and Douglas James in 1967. Isabel’s love for her family was boundless, and she devoted herself wholeheartedly to homemaking and caring for her growing family. Her home was a sanctuary, often shared with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as she welcomed them with open arms. When the grandchildren were born, Isabel provided love and support, staying with them for weeks or even months, sharing snuggles, comfort, and care.

Family gatherings were a central part of Isabel’s life, and she and Russell created many cherished memories before their departure for beautiful Penticton, during, and after their return to Saskatoon. They spent twenty-two years in the beautiful valley, making many new friends and enjoying adventures together. Upon their return to Saskatoon, they celebrated many more birthdays, holidays, and significant milestones, including their 50th, 60th, and 65th wedding anniversaries, surrounded by family and friends. These events, often filled with laughter, were a testament to their enduring love and the joy they found in being with their loved ones, including the card games with great grandchildren.

In 2017, at the age of 85, Isabel survived a life-threatening heart attack, defying the odds and earning the admiration of her medical team. Her resilience and determination were truly remarkable. Following this event, Isabel worked hard to rebuild her health and home. Sadly, after 65 years of marriage, Russell passed away in November 2019. Isabel continued to face life’s challenges with strength and grace, even as her own health began to decline.

In August 2024, Isabel underwent surgery for atherosclerosis. Despite the pain and hardship, she fought bravely to stay with her family, sharing a touching dream in which her great-grandchildren were holding her hand and pleading for her not to go. But she knew that her time had come, and she was being called “home.”

Isabel was admitted to the palliative care unit of St. Paul’s Hospital in November 2024, where she peacefully passed away on November 30, surrounded by the love of her family.

Isabel will be remembered for her strength, determination, and unwavering love. She faced life’s trials with grace, and her legacy of compassion, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Isabel is survived by her children, Gwen (Garry), Garry (Liana), Robert (Lorraine), grandchildren Erin, Ashley, Andrew (Amy), Mark (Aimee), Megan (Devon), Kyle, Ryan (Montana), Joseph, Shayleigh; and great-grandchildren Brynn, Madailein, Brayden, and Connor; dear friends Jack Koshey and Lorraine Towes. She is also survived by her sisters Marge, Grace, and brother Richard (Joan), brother-in-law Ed Perry, special nephew Dr. Graydon Meneilly, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Russell, in 2019; her son, Douglas, in 2021; her parents, Louis and Isabelle Steeg; her brothers Louis (Lil), Ted (Marg), Irvine (Agatha), Bob (Doris), Phillip (Isla Mae); her sisters Irene (Roman), Mildred (Paul), Rose (Clarence), Phyllis; stepsister Lillian (Graham); her parents-in-law Lila and Norman McConnell; brothers-in-law Thomas Edward (Aurelia) and Murray. In childhood, Robert, Stanley and Allen. Sisters-in-law Donna, Verna, as well as nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Thompson (cardiac surgeon), Dr. Akhtar (cardiologist), Dr. N. Sharma (Internal Medicine), Dr. Spelay (vascular surgeon), the palliative care team, Dr. C. Fournier and Dr. Johnson. Dr. Friggstad (family doctor), Dorothy (Spiritual Care of St. Paul’s Hospital), and Aimé Laventure from Mourning Glory Funeral Home of Saskatoon, for their compassionate care.

A private celebration of Isabel’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the SPCA in Isabel’s memory.

Isabel, we will always love you. God bless and keep you, Mom.