Obituary of Patty McLean

Patty McLean (nee Collins)March 17, 1964 – July 28, 2020On the evening of July 28th, 2020, while surrounded by her husband Rick and two children Rachel and Josh, Patty McLean peacefully slipped the bonds of earth to be with the Lord. Patty was deeply loved, admired and respected by Rick and their children.Patty was a whirlwind force and fighter who, once she had decided something, nothing would or could change her mind. If she wanted five Christmas trees in her house, that is what she got. If she set her mind to a project, it just got done.Patty was determined until the end to beat her disease and never gave up hope. As she fought the battle, she wrote of God’s love reaching her beyond her pain. Less than two weeks before her passing, she said she was getting out of bed and was going to get better. However, this was one fight she could not win.A few days before she passed, Patty said she was at peace and felt safe. She told her family that she was on the next stage of her journey and it would be ok. On the evening before she passed, she gave a thumbs up and said, “we’ve got this”. Her biggest concern until her last quiet moment was not of her own suffering but that of her family.She leaves behind her husband Rick, who truly is her best friend. From when they first met in June of 1980 as teenagers, to their last moments together, they have a bond that will last through eternity. She was so proud of his achievements and always had his back as they built a most loving life together during their 37 years of marriage.While Patty was always respected by colleagues and successful in her work life, if you asked her of her greatest accomplishment, she would answer - Rachel and Josh. She gave them love and understanding. She allowed them to be their own person. To be creative. To be curious. And her big-heartedness and concern for those around were only some of the lessons she passed on to her kids.She was determined that her family be a family of love and laughter. There was always a plan in place, because, in her words, she didn’t want life to be boring. She was a renowned shopper and it was her mission to always find the perfect gift for any occasion. And she did. No matter what the event - a birthday, anniversary, Christmas or even a non-event - when the family gathered there was always an abundance of food, goodies and balloons. Always balloons. And of course, laughter.Patty always had a project on the go – painting something that did not necessarily need painting, rearranging the furniture, digging in the garden and constantly working on the house to make it a perfect sanctuary for her family.She loved being close to the water and spending warm days at the beach collecting shells and getting too much sun.Those who knew her described her as generous and giving. To some, she was known as Wonder Woman.Patty was the Executive Director of the Ontario Association of Credit Counselling Services and held the AFCC (Accredited Financial Counsellor Canada) designation. Prior to her role with the Association, Patty spent over 17 years in the industry as a credit counsellor and financial coach. Over her entire career, she was a fierce advocate for the betterment of Canadians and the importance of strong financial fitness. Patty leaves a strong legacy of passion, professionalism, and dedication to constant improvement. Those who had the privilege of working with her can attest to her incredible grace, kindness, and focus.Patty was predeceased by her father Willard Collins and leaves behind her loving mother Shirley Collins and brothers Dean and Marty and sister-in-law Malinda. She will be forever in the memory of her in-laws Ruth (Nana) and Sharm (Poppa) McLean and favourite brother-in-law Rob. And of course, Toby and Joey. Patty leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins and nephews.There is a new shining star in the firmament, and it shines brightly to lead us home so that one day we will all be united. And we know that Patty is already opening paint cans to redecorate heaven, so it will be ready for us.She was truly one of a kind.Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.The family is grateful for the support and prayers of many family and friends during Patty’s illness.Donations can be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation in memory of Patty by clicking the link in the flowers and donations tab.“Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”