Anis Lorraine MacLean

Anis passed away April 30, 2025 at Lynn Valley Care Centre with her family at her side.

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Anis who left us peacefully on April 30, 2025 with family at her side.

Dear daughter of Grant and Edith Rupert (predeceased), Loving mother of Valarie (Tim O’Hara) of North Carolina Alistair (predeceased), Dale (Cheryl MacLean) of North Vancouver, Toby (Marcel Aubin) of Hearst. Beloved Grandma “Grandma Choo-Choo”of Alexander, Victoria, Kenneth, Ryan, Gian Carlo, and Grant. Cherished great-grandmother of George, Walter, Lucille, Keegan, Isla and Jamie.

Dear Sister of Wanda (predeceased) (Mike Guttin) and Tom Rupert (Jane predeceased).

Anis was born in Hornepayne and raised in Capreol, Ontario. She married Alistair (Sandy) MacLean in 1958 and together they raised their four children in Capreol. Later she moved to Southern Ontario and worked for CN Rail in Toronto, eventually settling down in St. Catharines for her retirement. She will be remembered there for her many weekend BBQ’s and pool parties, always opening her home to family and friends. After moving to her condo, she found a special community in her dear friends “The Grenadier Girls” sharing many social events, celebrations and friendships. Later in life, Anis moved to North Vancouver, BC to be closer to her family. She embraced the West Coast lifestyle with her usual enthusiasm – relishing walks along the Seawall, dining at the boathouse, especially shopping trips, and most importantly time spent with family.

Anis enjoyed a full career with CN Rail and retired proudly from Transportation Services in 1995. Throughout her years in service, she developed many friendships and gained immense respect from her colleagues for her dedication and work ethic. Beyond her professional life, she had an innate sense of artistry that she expressed through her home, where every corner reflected her unique taste and flair.

She had a knack for decorating and a love for making beautiful flower arrangements and wreaths, many of which adorned the doors of many friends and family. Her creativity flourished in everything she touched, and she became known for wrapping the most beautiful presents, forever reminding us of her love and attention to detail. Her gifts were always more than just items, they were expressions of care, wrapped in the same warmth that she offered to everyone around her.

Anis loved nothing more than spending time with her family. With a warm and vibrant spirit, she was always present for every gathering and celebration. Her joy and devotion carried her from one family event to the next as she travelled by train and plane, ensuring no party was ever missed. It’s no surprise that her grandchildren lovingly dubbed her “Grandma Choo-Choo”- a nickname that reflects not just her commitment to visiting them all, but the way she traveled with such enthusiasm and love.

Anis’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be remembered for her beauty, her creative spirit, her sweetness, her positive outlook and above all, her boundless care, kindness and love.

If love is sweet as a flower, then our mother was that sweet flower of love. She was our “sweet pea” the flower of love that bloomed in the hearts of all who knew her. Her memory will continue to bloom in our hearts, reminding us always of the joy she brought into the world.

Rest in peace Choo-Choo, you will be dearly missed but forever in our hearts. Your love and light will guide us as we cherish the beautiful memories we share.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services (1505 Lillooet Rd, North Vancouver, B.C.)

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the dedicated staff at the Lynn Valley Care Centre in North Vancouver, B.C. for the exceptional care, compassion and support they provided to our mom. Their kindness and tender care made a difficult time a little easier, and for that, we will always be thankful.