Isabelle, or Izzi/Isa as she was also known, was well respected in the local area after residing in Tocumwal from November 1963 until September 2000.
Izzi was born in Ballarat on September 3, 1934, the youngest of four children, following Edna, Lionel and Hugh.
Life wasn’t easy in those times – the tail end of the Depression, between wars, but in true Izzi fashion, she and her family made the best of life with love, humour and caring for each other.
After finishing school in Ballarat, she moved to Melbourne to work in many roles, mainly secretarial. In her younger years, she was involved in various sporting activities including softball (playing at state level) and, later in life, golf.
Izzi was always one to live life to the fullest and, while attending a dance at the Orama Ballroom in Footscray, she met well known footballer, Don Whitten. They married in 1956 and went on to have their children Carol and Russell.
The family moved around with Don’s football commitments and wherever they were, Izzi threw herself into community life; canteens, footy clubs, social events, keeping the home running and raising the children.
They eventually moved to Tocumwal in November 1963 where Don took on the position of coach.
The couple later took on the license for the Tattersalls Hotel in Tocumwal (or Whitten’s pub as it became known).
Tragically, they lost their son Russell in 1979 following a car accident, a loss that changed everything. Although they later separated, they continued to be there for each other at all times.
Izzi was always heavily involved in many aspects of the community of Tocumwal and is probably best known for the role she played in her position at the Tocumwal Golf Club.
On entry to the club, everyone was greeted with much enthusiasm and made to feel welcome.
They were also scrupulously checked over to make sure they complied with the strict dress code of that era, before being allowed to enter!
After moving to Melbourne to be with Carol, she used to visit the Yarraville Club and made great friends with the team there. Izzi’s celebration of life was held at the club on February 2, 2026.
Several friends she made while resident in Tocumwal travelled to Melbourne for the service.
Former employees of Tocumwal Golf Club, Wayne Sutton and Denise Baldwin, took part in the proceedings as well as her nieces Celeste, Yvette and Claudia.
Izzi will be sadly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, especially her daughter, Carol.
“Mum was my hero, my mentor, my soul mate, my biggest supporter and my very best friend,” she said.
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