Denise Madeline McLachlan

Born as Stratilo, Germaine Alice
September 12, 1956 - August 24, 2021


The Patio Garden (your last sanctuary)


The Sun Shines not quite as bright here, these days.
The Bird's songs not quite as clear.
Hope from the Flowers has diminished with time.
Our morning chats, now deaf to my ear.
Your time has come to move on from this world.
Our reluctant blessings sent.
Your message remains for all left behind.
A lesson for all to be taught:
Cherish your time here, your family, your friends.
Your life won't then be for not!


Survived by husband Bruce, son Mack (Karen), daughter Danielle (Mathew) and her beloved grandchildren Keegan, Tavish, Sorcha McLachlan, Lucy and Nolan Baker. Plus, grand-dogs Coco and Griffin. Denise was born in a home for unwed mothers in Saskatoon, SK to Helen Stratilo. She was adopted at four months old by Marion (2002) and Tony (2006) Gelley. They lived in Regina until moving to Winnipeg. In 1973 the family settled in St. Catharines, ON. She had many different jobs in various fields and met many wonderful friends along the way. Her final career as a school secretary was where she shined and was her true calling. She loved all the kids and they loved her. She kept in touch with many students over the years. She even had a small group that would come to her house to play in Uno tournaments with her grandkids. That is what mom was good at making memories for everyone else. Our mom was an optimistic caring person. She was a helper who was happy to see things work out for those she helped. She loved animals and being in her garden. She had a big loud laugh that was recognizable as soon as you heard it. Her family was her world. She focused on caring for them and having celebrations and making memories

The last fourteen months, mom battled Stage 4 endometrial cancer. She fought hard to stay with her family. She wanted to thank everyone who sent flowers, food, messages of hope and safely visited her during these times. It truly made her heart happy to know she had such good friends and kept her spirits up. At her request cremation has taken place and there will be a private family celebration. To all those who wish to celebrate her life, we ask that you raise your glass, preferably a wine glass and have a drink for her.

Online condolences may be shared at www.pjdartefh.ca