Hannah's funeral service was recorded and can be viewed at: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=sWg23BFuaCs&feature=youtu.be
Hannah Louise MacLean – 24, Dartmouth,
died tragically on Sunday, June 11, 2023. She was caring, funny, and
she found joy working with her hands. She was fiercely loved by her
family and those she chose as family. Hannah knew grief early in life
when her mother, Cindy (McNeil) MacLean, died of cancer shortly after
Hannah’s first birthday. But she never lacked for a loving,
stable home. Hannah was raised as a daughter by her grandparents, Papa
and Mama, with her siblings, Meghan and JD. They celebrated every
occasion with fanfare and five-star meals and supported Hannah in
finding her path. Hannah was never a wall flower; she had a big
personality, a mischievous streak, and a big laugh. She loved going on
adventures with her aunt, Shannon and the "six pack," which
included her siblings and cousins Julia, Grace and Jack. She had a
special relationship with her aunt, Shelagh, who nurtured her love of
music by singing to her from an early age.
Hannah loved all animals, but especially cows and cats (and her cat Henry always held a special place in her heart). She was a vibrant, complex young woman who was loving and generous to her loved ones. She had a huge heart and was always willing to help a friend (or even stranger) in need. Hannah also struggled with addiction. Even though times were often difficult, she would find the strength to hope for a life where she could be her true self. In a recent journal entry she wrote, "I shall embark on this adventurous journey into becoming more of who I am and discovering what life’s going to offer me." Hannah had been searching for her path and was currently thriving in the Women Unlimited program at NSCC and volunteering with the Elizabeth Fry Society. Just days before she died, she was excited to share with her Mama and Papa about her upcoming graduation in two weeks. We are heartbroken that her journey was cut short.
Hannah will be remembered for the indelible mark she left on this world and on the lives of everyone who loved her. Do something kind for someone else in her memory.
Hannah is survived by her Mama and Papa, Rev. Glenn and Margaret (Tupper) MacLean; her birth father, Shawn (Darlene) MacLean; her siblings, Meghan (Ben McLaughlin) and JD MacLean; her aunts, Rev. Shannon (Kevin Demers) MacLean and Shelagh (Peter) Barkhouse; her cousins, Julia, Jacob, Grace, Jack, and Abby and countless other family members and friends whose hearts are broken.
Memorial donations may be made in memory of Hannah to the Elizabeth Fry Society. These donations will support the establishment of safe housing for women and gender diverse people struggling with addiction and trauma and mental health. The house will be open in September and will be named in Hannah's honour.
They write, "Hannah will live on through the work she began last summer at the Elizabeth Fry Society, and the house that we are opening in September will be named in her honour. Her memory and legacy will be to create safety and support for those who struggle."
The Elizabeth Fry Society, 85 Queen St, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 1G7 www.efrymns/donate.ca, at the funeral home, or at the church on Sunday.
A Celebration of Hannah’s life will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, June 18, 2023, at Trinity United Church, 415 Upper Onslow Road, Upper Onslow, conducted by Rev. Cathie Crooks.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Public messages of condolences may be shared with the family by viewing Hannah’s obituary on-line and selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com