MacLean, Althea E.

Althea Esther (Hanson) MacLean, 96, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on March 10, 2023 at her home in Manchester. She was born on May 6, 1926 in Aurora, IL to the late Alvin E. and Esther A. (Ellertson) Hanson. After attending a year of Albion College, she moved to Manchester, CT in 1947 where she and her husband, Roderick MacLean, lived, raised their family, and made lifelong friends. Althea was mother to her five children and 6 foster babies and was a busy and productive homemaker. She was later a bank teller at CT Bank and Trust.

Althea was an extraordinary woman who embodied the 3 Hs: Head, Heart, and Hands. She had a wonderful and positive outlook on life and a strong spirit. Althea was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Manchester, CT for 67 years. In the early years, she was part of the Ruth Circle and Church Council, of which she was the only female member, and in later years was instrumental in the creation of the church's labyrinth garden. She was active in and gave back to her community in many ways, including sharing her talents of sewing and knitting. She created and donated countless newborn hats and stuffed animals and taught many others to do the same. She was a girl scout leader, quilt maker, all around seamstress, and social organizer. She liked bowling, travelling, watching UCONN women's basketball, and playing cards, especially bridge and hand and foot.

Althea and Rod moved to White Oaks in Manchester in 2006 where Althea again became an active member of her community. She edited the White Oaks newsletter; was the ambassador to the local community; spearheaded the creation of the library, book club, knitting group, and happy hour; and made many good friends. Althea loved being with people and had many deep friendships in each stage of her life. She adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren and loved spending time with them. She shared her knowledge and talents, teaching her grandchildren how to sew and play cards, and was very free with the gift of her time. She cherished family and was the consummate matriarch.

She was predeceased by her parents; her loving husband, Roderick MacLean, in 2009 after 61 years together; siblings and their spouses, Bob and Mike Hanson, Bill and Phyllis Hanson, and Bob Hall; and inlaws, Bud MacLean, Betty and Norm Osborne, and Anne Donnelley.

Surviving family members include her 5 children, Dale (MacLean) and her husband, Bruce McCubrey, of Florida, Scott and his wife, Lisa, of Bradford, N.H., Susan (MacLean) and her husband, Mike Bartlett of Henniker, N.H., Tom and his wife, Susie, of Albuquerque, N.M., and Bill and his wife, Marie, of West Hartford. She also leaves 12 grandchildren—Jenny, Kim, Betsy, Sheri, Ryan, Meghan, Kelley, Harrison, Alex, Amy, Tristan, and Tyler; 11 great-grandchildren; her beloved sister, Faith Hall; and many extended family members.

A visiting hour will be held on Saturday April 29, 2023 from 2-3 PM at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 60 Church St. Manchester, CT followed by a memorial service at 3PM. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: MACC Charities or Creative Living Community of CT.