Marilese Bessie MacDonell

Marilese Bessie MacDonell (nee Mansell), of Canmore, passed away on June 17, 2026, at Canmore General Hospital at the age of 85 years young.

Marilese will be profoundly missed by those who have survived her, Bob MacDonell, cherished husband of 34 years, whose support, and companionship enriched her life every day. Together, they shared a family life blessed with five children: Michelle (Don), Janis (Jim), Trevor (Kelly), Scott (Michelle), and Laura (Kevin), and grandchildren; Connor (Shannon), Sydney, Kayden, Adasyn, Isaac, Eli, and Niamh. She is survived by her siblings Bill (Jane), Claudia (Hal), and Larry (Debbie), and sister-in-law Judi (Robert), and many nieces and nephews.

She had known the loss of her first beloved husband, Elwood Springman, and her dear parents, Mary and Ed Mansell, whose memories remained a treasured part of her life story.

Marilese was the first of four children born to Ed and Mary Mansell in Winnipeg, Manitoba on June 1, 1941. This is where her adventures began. Her education in Nursing took her across Canada and allowed her to explore different roles as a nurse. From emergency medicine, neurology, to neo-natal intensive care, her commitment to helping others led to a fulfilling 30-year career. In addition to her two medical degrees, she earned a degree in Music, reflecting her deep love for the Arts. She loved to sing, play piano, and was an avid drummer.

Marilese’s warmth extended far beyond her professional achievements. She embraced life with a heart full of love, finding joy and peace in family and friends, music, living an active and healthy life that included hiking, traveling, nature, and reading. She was also active in the community, the church, and volunteering, always helping and giving back to others.

Marilese held many passions. She sang with heartfelt devotion in the church choir, had many adventures travelling the world with Bob, and logged countless hikes and walks in the Bow Valley. She, along with Bob, orchestrated and participated in family traditions, including skating parties, highway cleanups and an annual family trip to Cross River now in its 27th year.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Ralph Connor Memorial United Church in Canmore, Alberta, located at 617 8 St. Family, friends, and community members are encouraged to wear Marilese’s favourite color, purple, or any bright color clothing. Please join the family in honoring Marilese’s extraordinary life and the gentle spirit she leaves behind.

Our family would like to thank the staff at Origin at Spring Creek and Canmore General Hospital for the respect, care and dignity they provided to Marilese. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marilese’s name to a charity of choice.