Valerie Ann McLean was born on July 8, 1957, in Grande Prairie, Alberta. We are saddened to announce her passing on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the age of 69.

Ann lived a very fulfilled life, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Bachelor of Education. In the early 90s, she began teaching and continued until 2022, when she retired as principal. She also took time off from teaching to complete the Native Artisan program in Lac La Biche, Alberta. There, Ann further refined her art skills, which she passed on to the younger generation in the community, who still use those skills today. She was a well-respected and loved elder, a pillar in the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation community.

Ann was predeceased by her parents, Dan and Eliza McLean. She is survived by her brothers, Arnold (Ernestine) and Paul; her sisters, Sharon (Clarence), Doris (Robert), Carol, Annette (Billy Joe), Ruby, and Shirley; and her son, Corey (Carol), and their children, Tia, Kobe, and Hillary McLean.

The wake will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service and luncheon on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Both will take place at the Sturgeon Lake Community Hall (Sturgeon Lake 154, AB T0H 3N0).

In honour of Ann, memorial donations may be made to Bandaged Paws Animal Rescue Association (bandagedpaws.org/donate).