Isabelle Harnden, lovingly called “Izzy” by her friends and Nanny by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, peacefully passed away on March 24, 2026, at the age of 90. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Gus Harnden in 2014, with whom she enjoyed 57 wonderful years of marriage.
Isabelle was born on May 6, 1935, in Fort William to parents Gordon and Margaret (Mac Gray) Houston. She often reminisced about her childhood on Sprague Street and all the happy times she shared with her two sisters, Shirley and Elizabeth “Liz,” along with neighborhood friends. Family gatherings at their camp in Silver Harbour and winters spent on their dad’s backyard ice rink were especially dear to her heart.
Isabelle went to Isabella Street School and Fort William Collegiate Institute. Her first job was at the Royal Bank before moving on to work with Census Canada. She dedicated herself fully to raising their three children: Cindy, Susanne, and Andrew. Later in life, she returned to school to earn a General Arts and Science Diploma focused on Child Care Work.
For more than 30 years, she actively participated in the Port Arthur Moose and Moose Ladies organizations where she took part in charity events, teas, sewing clubs, and of course social gatherings. Both Isabelle and Gus enjoyed participating in the Moose mixed curling league for many years along with fun out-of-town bonspiels that introduced them to lifelong friends.
During the summers, Isabelle and Gus cherished their time at Pearl where they made countless joyful memories with their children, grandchildren, and friends. As a devoted Nanny, Isabelle loved cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events and activities; she always showed up for those special moments. Family gatherings revolved around her delicious Christmas meals as well as Birthday celebrations and Sunday dinners that brought everyone together.
Isabelle will be greatly missed but fondly remembered for her kindness and unconditional love for family along with her special talent for making everyone feel appreciated.
Isabelle is preceded in death by Gus; parents Margaret and Gordon Houston; sister Liz Roulston; brothers-in-law Ken Roulston and Mike Chykaliuk.
She is survived by her caring children Cindy (Jack) Rioux, Susanne (Don) Poirier, Andrew (Christine) Harnden; grandchildren Donny Rioux, Shannon (Mike) Rossi, Steve (Karleen) Rioux, Trevor (Jocelyn) Rioux, Chantal (Kyle) Lester; Audrey and Tyler Harnden; along with ten beloved great-grandchildren Henrik, Ivy, Kyla, Damon, Leo, Charlie, Avery, Violet, Ryan, and Baby Austin. Her sister Shirley (Houston) Chykaliuk also survives her.
The family would like to express sincere thanks to the Hogarth Riverview Manor 4 North Care team for their compassionate care of Isabelle during her time there especially in her final days.
In line with Isabelle’s wishes cremation has taken place with a private family interment scheduled for later. If desired donations can be made in Isabelle’s name to the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay which would be greatly appreciated.
Forever loved forever missed
Condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
