Rachel R. (Cloutier) Portelance, 53, of Marion passed away early morning Monday, February 15, 2021. Rachel ended her five-year battle with esophageal cancer at home alongside her husband Dan, her two sons Evan and Aaron and her puppy Walter.
Although the past five years have been difficult, Rachel never let her disease limit her compassion or weaken her spirits. Just months after her first set of treatments which included major surgery, Rachel returned to work as an oncology nurse at St. Annes Hudner Oncology, where she proudly worked for the past 18 years. Rachel would not let her medical setback stop her from her calling. Helping and comforting of people through the darkest times.
During her years as a nurse, Rachel left her shining mark on 100’s if not 1000’s of patients and their families, and each time taking a little piece of them with her to cherish, because nursing wasn’t just a career to her, it was her reason for waking up and becoming a better person each day. Rachel’s ability to relate with her patients gave hope to many, and the love she showed them would lift her patients’ souls from their deepest and darkest moments.
When not working Rachel enjoyed spending time at home with her family and admiring her sons’ accomplishments, and enjoying the delish meals her husband made for their family. Rachel lived for her family, and battled her disease with great courage to spend as much time with them as possible.
Rachel is survived by her mother Teresa Cloutier, her husband Daniel Portelance, her two sons Evan Portelance and Aaron Portelance and her brother Ronald Cloutier.
Her visitation will be held on Friday, February 19, 2021 from 4:00 pm-8:00 pm in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd. New Bedford, MA 02745. Due to current occupancy restrictions, please be mindful that guests may have to wait outside while others pay their respects. Funeral service and burial are private.
At Rachel’s request, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Rachel to: Dominican Sisters of the Presentation, 3012 Elm St, Dighton, MA 02715-1600
