Nellie McClung

Dear Nellie, How could you leave without leting us know? I met you in 1973, in Charles Lillard's creative writing workshop. I have just been working on an essay about the poetry scene in Vancouver in the 1970s and 1980s, and extoling the virtues of your writing, your wit, your friendship. Your painting of the lively sailboats in the waters of Kitsilano hangs on the wall of Stephen's office, we both enjoy seeing that painting every day. So many memories, Nellie, of poetry books, poetry readings, parties, Peter, and my trip to Edmonton with you to give poetry readings together and to see your place of origin. I alays remembered your birthday, March 21st, the first day of spring--like you, a new season, a refreshing sense of humour, a laugh, an adventure, some news of thngs going on. You were a treasured friend, calling across the miles between your beloved home in the ocean city, and Montreal. Nellie, we are going to miss yyou, that's for sure. We love you, Carolyn (Zonailo) & Stephen (Morrisey), Montrea;l, Quebec.

Nellie, my dear cousin,you brought joy and sunshine into my life. We reconnected late, but made up for lost time. We made a trip on the ferries to Lantern Lane ,where the present owner opened her home to you and I and we spent the day in your grandma's house, reminiscing... you went home again!
Even my two year old grandaughter, when she met you, recognized the joy in your soul and liked you right away. You always had such a zest for life. Blue eyes smiling, georgeous you! I really miss you. You are loved!
I am honored to be your cousin!
Patricia McClung

May Nellie's soul be at peace, free from the sufferings schizophrenia invades into one's body without permission, option, or respite.

I hope that Nellie will be at rest and that her Grandmother is there to greet her soul ~ free from disease and that Grand daughter and Grandmother may share stories of the then and now.
Rest in Peaceful Slumber, Ms. McClung

We met Nellie through my cousin Peter Norris and Knowing Nellie from then on meant many delightful conversations and sometimes midnight phonecalls but always interesting and often insightful and, unfortunately, sometimes difficult . Now not to happen again and so we shall miss her and the connection to my cousin. Shirley M. Whyte.