It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Heidemarie (Rath) MacLean on September 11, 2026, surrounded by her children. Heidi was an incredibly kind and loving person who took great joy in life and touched the lives of everyone who was lucky enough to know her.
Heidi was born in Germany in 1947 but spent most of her childhood in Sudan and Thailand, along with her parents (Ulrich and Veronika), brother (Ulli), and sister (Christine). Her international upbringing proved to be influential: she had a life-long love of travel and a passionate commitment to helping improve the lives of others.
Heidi’s family moved to Montreal in 1961. While studying at McGill University, she met and fell in love with Donald MacLean, whom she married in 1972. Work took the newly-married couple to Ottawa shortly afterwards, and their family grew with the births of Craig and Elizabeth. Heidi loved being a mother and was devoted to her children, but she also thrived in her career and soon started her own consulting firm.
The family’s next move, to Switzerland, opened new doors for Heidi professionally. Her warmth, tact and innate ability to relate to people led her to a new role advising senior UN personnel. The work took her to countries around the world and introduced her to many new colleagues, and it remained an important part of her life for years to come.
Ottawa remained home, however, and Don and Heidi returned in 1999 to settle in New Edinburgh – a community to which they were deeply attached. Heidi was a keen gardener and a host to many friends and family, and she took particular joy in her later role as grandmother, showering affection (and ice cream) on Sebastien, Ethan, Luca, Hunter, and Lila. She also maintained her deep commitment to her work, continuing to support her global partners well into her 70s.
Don and Heidi were happily married for 52 years. They shared a love of travel, laughter, and good food, and they spent countless hours together in their matching armchairs. They supported each other through life’s difficult moments, and did everything they could to help others.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Heidi’s life in the Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre at 280 Beechwood Avenue on Sunday, September 27, at 2:00pm. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Parkinson Canada: www.parkinson.ca
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