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| Courtesy A. Reid |
Anne McConnell-Strong
May 18, 1934 - October 3, 2016
Born in Co. Galway, Ireland, Anne
trained as a nurse in England, and eventually settled in Canada in the 1960s.
She quickly became part of the Irish community in North America. In 1978, Anne
founded the local chapter of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, was elected
chairperson of the Eastern Comhaltas Regional Board in 1988, and spent nearly
four decades ceaselessly promoting the development and preservation of Irish
traditional music, dance and culture in Canada and the United States.
On October 2nd, she sustained a fall after leaving a Toronto stage, where moments earlier had been
bestowed with an appreciation award.
Unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries the following day.
Anyone who was remotely involved in
the Irish cultural community in Canada knew and respected Anne for her
dedication, her vision and her humanity. She dedicated a large part of her life
to advancing the cause of traditional Irish music, dance and entertainment over
the past 40 odd years, and we are deeply grateful for her tireless efforts. Her
special love was bringing Echoes of Erin to Canada as often as possible and in
doing this, she enabled countless hours of entertainment for many people.
It was a pleasure and a privilege to know
Anne and to work with her in Comhaltas.
On behalf of the Ottawa
Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, we extend our deepest sympathies to
Elmer, Ita, Dympna, Fintan, and the family on the death of Anne
McConnell-Strong. We made a donation to Martha's Table in her memory.
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