We regretfully announce that after a brief, courageous battle with cancer, Diane Isabel Lessels received her well-earned rest on March 6, 2021, at 82 years old. Diane is survived by her sons Stuart (Galen) and Craig (Marg), and her beloved grandchildren Kayla and Ayden. Diane is predeceased by her husband, Alistair (2014) and her daughter Alison (1967).
Diane lived a full and productive life that touched many people. She graduated from the University of Western Ontario. To pay for this education, she spent the summers working as a server in the main dining room at the Banff Springs Hotel. After graduation, Diane started teaching in Peel Region. During this time, she met a group of fellow teachers who fondly call themselves the CATS. This group of incredible women shared many adventures, life events and travels. They supported and cared for each other and have remained lifelong friends.
Diane met her husband, Alistair, on the slopes of Craigleith Ski Club in the 1960s. They built a cabin at the bottom of the ski club and moved there permanently in 1971. Diane became fully immersed in the area joining the Blue Mountain Bridge Club, the Blue Mountain Book Club, the Blue Mountain Golf Club, and the Probus Club of Collingwood. She was also an avid tennis player, golfer and enjoyed her daily swims in Georgian Bay.
Diane joined the local political scene representing the area as a trustee and Vice Chairperson on the Grey County Board of Education. She was a counselor on the Township of Collingwood Council and became the Chairperson of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority. Diane was instrumental in the development of many area facilities, including the acquisition and transformation of the former railway line into the Georgian Trail. Diane was a dedicated member of the Liberal Party. She ran for the nomination of the provincial riding and worked on numerous campaigns. Diane served on the Board of Directors of the Craigleith Ski Club, where she and Alistair became the first Husband and Wife team to serve on the board.
In 1989, Diane resumed teaching at Georgian Bay Secondary school, in Meaford, sharing her love of history. She received the Prime Ministers Award for Teaching for a special history project and was very proud of this award. She often talked about receiving a standing ovation in the House of Commons as part of this award presentation.
Diane’s greatest joy and passion remained her children, and grandchildren, who always made her smile and she had great fun interacting with.
“Izzy”, you have lived an incredible life and you will be missed by many! Please know we find peace and comfort in the thought that you are now reunited with your husband and daughter. Thank you for all the valuable lessons you have shared.
Due to COVID restrictions, a private internment with family will be held and details about a service will be announced at a later date.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Diane Lessels Saturday March 6th 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Collingwood, Province: Ontario