It is with profound sadness the family announces the passing of Claire Marie (Ballantyne) Tulle, Calgary, Alta., formerly of Woodburn. Claire passed away peacefully Saturday, January 29, 2022 at the Dulcina Hospice in Calgary, after courageously battling cancer for 18 years. Born on August 30, 1957 in New Glasgow, she was a daughter of Catherine (Bryan) Freeborn and the late G. Howard Ballantyne. Claire was a graduate of East Pictou Rural High (1975) and St. F.X. University (1979) Science and Education (1980). Following graduation, Claire moved to Calgary and began her teaching career in the Science Department at Bishop Carroll High School, Calgary for 23 years before cancer struck for the first time in 2003. Claire was competitive in every way, always looking for the next challenge. She was a natural athlete gaining many accomplishments. One being her 5 Pin Bowling where she represented Alberta at Nationals on several occasions. She was a player showcased on TSN and in 1987 shattered the Alberta 5 pin record, which still stands 33 years later. Claire was an avid softball player, bowler, and golfer. She was a skilled card player, bridge being her passion. She could see tricks where few others could find the path. Her biggest accomplishment was her family and the love and loyalty she had and shared with everyone who crossed her path. She was an amazing, non-judgemental soul, who taught life lessons through gentle actions, not words. After playing 20 rounds of golf and walking the course with ease in spring 2021, her cancer came back and back hard. Without one word of remorse, no self pity or complaint she prepared fearlessly for the realization that lay ahead. Claire’s good days were spent living life to the fullest, entertaining family and friends, and playing golf. Surviving are her husband of 33 years, George; daughters, Megan and Carolyn (Jordan), Calgary; mother, Catherine (Larry) Freeborn, Abercrombie; sisters, Karen (Murdo) MacNeil, Little Harbour; Heather Chieffo, Calgary; nieces and nephews, Joel MacNeil; Stephanie, Maria and Domenica Chieffo; Jason, Julia and Morgan Ballantyne. Claire was predeceased by her father, G. Howard Ballantyne; brother, Bryan Ballantyne; brother-in-law, Domenico Chieffo. The family would like to thank all the incredible walking angels that were a vital part of Claire’s fight and to her silent pallbearers and incredible friends, our eternal thanks. Due to Covid restriction the family will mourn in private. Claire’s last ask was not to be sad, but simply to smile and raise a glass in her name. (Lovingly submitted by family.) To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Claire Marie (Ballantyne) Tulle, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.