(1945-2020) - With great sadness we announce the passing of our beloved Mother and friend, Isobel Lander, on December 13, 2020. Predeceased by her husband Hugh Lander (2007), and her loving partner, Robert (Bob) DeWaard (2016). Daughter of the late Robert and Jesse McMath, sister to the late William, George, Jean, and Jennette, of Scotland. Loving mother to Neil Lander (Celina Visser) and Paul Lander.
A truly remarkable women, Isobel practiced loving kindness everyday of her life and took a brave and fearless approach to life’s many challenges. She was a friend to many and will be missed by all who knew her.
Isobel worked at the University of Guelph for over 20 years in the Centre for International Programs, which she enjoyed very much. We recall many times when all of the other university students went home to be with their families on holidays, Isobel invited the international students to share in the holidays with her family, often hosting more than 10 international students at thanksgiving and other occasions.
A lifelong advocate for civil rights and gender equality, Isobel had great compassion and empathy for the human condition and always extended unconditional love and support to those in need. She was a special person who continues to inspire us to follow in her footsteps.
We are thankful and grateful for the incredible nurses, PSW’s and staff at the Village of Arbour Trails and Forest Heights for the loving care and comfort they provided Isobel over the last four years. We would also like to thank Dr. Jennifer Caspers and her team Meghan and Moe, for all their care, love and support.
We will never forget you, Mum. We were so blessed to share this life with you and experience your unrelenting love. We will love you for eternity.
Cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 519-822-0051.
In lieu of flowers, please share your love and kindness with others and try to help those in need whenever you can. If desired, please direct any donation to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration or the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
~ Mary Elizabeth Frye
A tree will be planted in memory of Isobel D. Lander in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.