Obituary of Dora MacLean

Dora Sarah “Doris”MacLean, R.N., 96, of Plymouth, passed into the presence of her Lord on December 13, 2016 in the Valley View Villa where she had been a resident for the past 7 years. Born in Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, she was the daughter of the late Malcolm and Margaret (MacDonald) MacDougall, and step daughter of late George MacKeigen. She lived most of her younger years in Cape Breton except for 6 years when her family lived in Boston. She was a graduate of Sydney City Hospital School of Nursing class of 1944 and worked as night supervisor until her marriage in 1949 when she and her husband moved to New Glasgow. When they began their family, she stayed at home to raise them, returning to nursing a few years after her husband passed away in 1963. She worked at the Aberdeen Hospital from 1970 until her retirement in 1984. During these years she also cared for her dear mother until her death in 1975. Mom was a wonderful mother and grandmother who expressed her love through beautifully prepared home cooked meals they could enjoy together. An amazing baker, she always kept in mind everyone’s favourites and baked them when they were coming for a visit. No one ever went away hungry, and she loved to have family and friends visit. She loved her Scottish roots and especially her beloved Cape Breton. Upon crossing the Canso Causeway, she always turned to the children and would say “We are now entering God’s Country”. She is survived by her daughter Peggy Linden (Eddie), Plymouth; a son Murdock MacLean, Sydney Mines; grandson Jonathan Linden (Sara), Calgary; grand-daughters Sarah Howard (Donald), Dartmouth, Rachel Morton (Ben), Moncton, great grandsons Lincoln and Osmond Howard. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Murdock, son Sandy, step-brother and sister Bill and Belle MacDougall. She was the last surviving member of her family. Mrs. MacLean rested at Eagles Funeral Home, Westville with visiting on Saturday Dec. 17 followed by her funeral service at 1 o’clock from Eagles Funeral Chapel. Burial will take place in Sydney Mines, Cape Breton at a later date. Special thanks to the wonderful staff of Valley View Villa for their kindness and devoted care of our mother over the past 7 years and also for the love and support that was shown to us by staff and friends, especially in Mom’s last days. The friendships made at the Villa will not be forgotten. Donations in Mom’s memory may be made to Valley View Villa, the Alzheimer’s Society, or a charity of one’s choice.