Clare Eileen McKee

Clare Eileen (McGovern) McKee - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a very special wife, mother and grandmother. Clare was born on December 19, 1936, to John and Eileen (Duffy) McGovern in Orillia, Ontario.

Clare leaves behind Maurice McKee, her loving husband of 58 years; son Jim; daughters Margaret (David Muir), Elizabeth (Terence Elliott) and Katherine (Neil Munday); grandchildren Connor, Olivia, Allison, Matthew, Dawson, James, Evan, Sophie and Sarah; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brother James McGovern and pre-deceased by sisters Marie Moffatt and Margaret Gillette, and brothers Joseph and Peter McGovern. 

Clare studied nursing at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, and married Maurice of Mono Centre, Ontario, shortly after graduation. As a result of Maurice’s career in mining, they lived in northern Quebec, Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Alberta and Ontario. Clare practiced nursing in most of these provinces, returning to school several times to upgrade, and finally retired from Scarborough Grace Hospital in 1999. Clare prided herself on active living, and as an adult took up swimming, curling, skiing, bridge and golf. With her daughters, she got involved in Girl Guides, first as a camp nurse and later as a leader, and developed a love for campfires and singalongs. Later in life, she certified as a yoga instructor and meditated daily. Upon retirement, Clare and Maurice relocated to Wolfville, Nova Scotia, to be closer to their grandchildren. Clare was an excellent baker and known for her pastry. She was an active member of the KenWo Bridge Club, the Wolfville Newcomers’ Club, and Saint Francis of Assisi Parish.  While Clare’s last years were difficult with Parkinson’s disease, she lived a full life and will be remembered for her generosity and infectious laughter. The family is grateful for the support of Deacon Don Boudreau, and the wonderful care provided by medical staff from the VON, CareForce Health Services, VRH Emergency and Soldier’s Memorial Hospital in Middleton, Nova Scotia. 

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 5 at 11:00 am at Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Wolfville, with a reception to follow in the Church Hall. Private interment to follow in the St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Cemetery, Ridge Road, Wolfville. Messages of condolence may be left at www.whitefamilyfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson Canada, Girl Guides of Canada or a charity of your choice.