ISABELLE HARNDEN

ISABELLE FRANCES MARY HARNDEN (nee Houston)
Isabelle Harnden, affectionately known as "Izzy" to her friends and Nanny to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at the age of 90. She was predeceased by her devoted husband Gus Harnden in 2014, with whom she shared 57 years of marriage.

Isabelle was born on May 6, 1935 in Fort William to parents Gordon and Margaret (MacGray) Houston. She spoke fondly of her childhood growing up on Sprague Street and all the fun she and her two sisters, Shirley and Elizabeth "Liz" had with neighbourhood friends, wonderful family times at their camp at Silver Harbour and winters spent on their Dad's backyard ice rink.

Isabelle attended Isabella Street School and Fort William Collegiate Institute, with her first job being at the Royal Bank and later working with Census Canada. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising their three children: Cindy, Susanne and Andrew, and later returned to school, earning a General Arts and Science Diploma with a focus in Child Care Work.

For over 30 years, she was an active member of the Port Arthur Moose and the Moose Ladies, where she was involved in charity events, teas, sewing club and of course socializing. Her and Gus also enjoyed the Moose mixed curling league for many years and all of the fun out-of-town bonspiels with their good friends made there over the years.

In the summers Isabelle and Gus treasured their time at Pearl, where they created countless cherished memories with their children, grandchildren and friends. Isabelle was also a devoted and encouraging Nanny who took great pleasure in attending her grandchildren's sporting events and activities, always present for the moments that mattered most. She was the heart of family gatherings and lovingly prepared countless Christmas, Birthday and Sunday dinners that brought everyone together.

Isabelle will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her kindness, her unwavering love and devotion to family and her natural ability to make others feel valued and loved.

Isabelle was predeceased by her husband Gus, parents Margaret and Gordon Houston, her sister Liz Roulston and brothers-in-law Ken Roulston and Mike Chykaliuk.

She is survived by her loving children Cindy (Jack) Rioux, Susanne (Don) Poirier and Andrew (Christine) Harnden; her grandchildren Donny Rioux, Shannon (Mike) Rossi, Steve (Karleen) Rioux, Trevor (Jocelyn) Rioux, Chantal (Kyle) Lester, Audrey and Tyler Harnden; and her 10 precious great-grandchildren Henrik, Ivy, Kyla, Damon, Leo, Charlie, Avery, Violet, Ryan and Baby Austin. She is also survived by her sister Shirley (Houston) Chykaliuk.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all of the Hogarth Riverview Manor 4 North Care team for their kind and compassionate care of Isabelle, throughout her time there and in her final days.

As per Isabelle's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family interment will take place at a later date. If friends so desire, donations in Isabelle's memory to the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay, would be greatly appreciated.

Forever loved, forever missed
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com