Lionel "Lennie" Joseph MacIsaac

   It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lionel “Lennie” MacIsaac on January 26, 2021 at the Crowsnest Continuing Care Centre, Blairmore, AB.  He was 81 years of age.

   Lennie was the second of five children and had to grow-up fast after his father returned from World War II.  He was a good student, but due to circumstances, left school and started working in the underground mines of Cape Breton, NS at fifteen years of age with rocks in his pockets so he could meet the weight requirements to go underground.  He remained a proud Cape Bretoner for his entire life and made road trips back east whenever possible.

   Lennie headed west to Prince George, BC as a volunteer with the Catholic Church where he met the love of his life in a very patient and kind woman named Judy.  They were married in her hometown of Broadus, MT on August 2, 1969 and relocated back to New Waterford, NS to start their new life together.  They were blessed with four amazing children and seven much loved and cherished grandchildren.  After a few quick moves in between, Lennie settled his family in the Crowsnest Pass, AB in 1974 where he lived, worked and played until his passing.  He was a hardworking coalminer with a generous and giving nature.  After retiring, Lennie found a love of cooking and baking.  Many of his friends will remember the seemingly endless batches of muffins and seafood chowder.  His spaghetti pies fed his children through their university years.  Lennie also spent hours volunteering throughout the Pass, including for the Bellevue Mine, Crowsnest Museum, Holy Trinity Parish Council, and numerous Legion activities.  He was always there for anyone who was in need.  While his family and friends will endlessly miss him, they know he is watching over them with a Coors Light in his hand, his pup, Mini Miner in his lap, and a story to tell.  His family will continue to strive to live by the life lesson he lived by: “Play as hard as you work.”  Enjoy your rest now, Dad. 

  Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life is his wife, Judy MacIsaac of Coleman, AB; his son, Greg (Jessica) MacIsaac; his daughters, Carla (Kevin) Koe, Leah (Phil) McNeil and Karen MacIsaac; his grandchildren, Ava, Lila, Zachary, Allison, Paige, Ella and Etta; his brother, Frank MacIsaac; as well as his extended family and many friends.

   He was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Josephine MacIsaac; his brother, Ray MacIsaac; and his sisters, Sheila (Terrance) White and Annette MacIsaac.

   With respect for Lennie’s wishes, a private family gathering was held.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Parish Building Fund (PO Box 1410, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0), or the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 9 Coleman (PO Box 448, Coleman, AB T0K 0M0).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements.  (403) 562-8555