Isabel Pearl McDonald (nee Chatterley)

Peacefully at the Portage General Hospital with family by her side, Isabel passed away at the age of 94 years after a long rewarding life. Just as she wished, Isabel lived in her home until her last day.

She was born Isabel Pearl Chatterley in Rossendale, Manitoba, the second eldest child of Wesley and Ella Chatterley. In 1945 she moved with her family to Portage la Prairie.

Isabel met and fell in love with her high school sweetheart Albert (Ab) McDonald who she married in 1951 and built their home and life together in Portage.

Isabel was predeceased by her husband of 51 years, Albert McDonald, sisters Gladys Chatterley and Margaret Spriggs; brothers George and Albert Chatterley. Isabel is survived by her sister Edna Hilts (Lou) and brother Wes (Maureen) Chatterley as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. She was grateful to have spent the last six years of her life with her niece and live-in companion Sandra Spriggs.

Isabel is lovingly remembered by her children Karen (Ron) of Summerland BC and Brent (Lorraine) of Portage la Prairie. Grandma Isabel was deeply loved by her grandchildren Ryan Denslow, Kendra (Marc) Usunier; Melissa (Gord) and Brendan (Maryellen) McDonald and step-grandchildren Ronnie (Christal) and Tommy (Lea) McEachern. Great grandchildren Elise and Luc Usunier and Step-great grandchildren Amelia and Makayla Gapp, Skye Macdonald and Millie McEachern.

Isabel was an excellent seamstress who worked over 30 years with Marr Fashions. In retirement, Mom spent numerous years making pies and cabbage rolls at Spriggs’ restaurant. Mom had many talents and hobbies. She sewed many outfits for family and friends including bridesmaids' dresses, skating and Halloween costumes, upholstery and drapes. She lovingly knit hundreds of Angel blankets. Isabel was a TOPS member for many years enjoying her friends and travelling to conventions. Mom enjoyed playing cards and was an avid curling fan. She was the family historian who enjoyed hosting family get-togethers to share and hear what’s happening in the family. Mom and Dad enjoyed camping at Lynch’s Point for 28 years; she especially enjoyed the long sunsets and a good campfire with family and friends. They enjoyed traveling and made numerous trips to Edmonton and British Columbia.

In honouring Isabel’s wishes her friends and family will be celebrating her life privately in the spring where she will be reunited with her beloved Ab.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Diabetes Canada or a charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021