Irene was born, raised, and lived most of her life in Vancouver. She retired to Horse Lake and eventually arrived in Kamloops in the early 1980’s. Her two children, Colin (Mavis) and Gail (Jim) were always important in her life. She was an enthusiastic volunteer wherever she lived, especially in schools and her Church. In Kamloops she was well known for the variety of seasonally themed pins she designed and made. She donated many thousands of dollars in proceeds from the sale of those pins to local groups, particularly the Kamloops United Church Choir.
Besides her children, she is survived by five grandchildren – Aaron (Sakiko), Claire (Chad), Nicholas, Noah and Ian, and five great grandchildren – Yuta, Anna, Julia, Lyncon and Piper. The family wishes to thank Dr. Stefanyk, friends at Kamloops United Church, and the staff at RIH, Bedford Manor, Ponderosa Lodge, and finally Overlander Residential Care, where she passed peacefully with her family by her side. There will be no formal service as per her request. In the spring her ashes will be scattered at her favourite spot on Cultus Lake in the Fraser Valley.
3 Tributes
To Colin, Gail and the family of Irene. It was a pleasure to be part of your mom’s life. I thoroughly enjoyed the time we had together, horsing around mostly. To me she was a hilarious, thoughtful lady…an inspiration who made my work world a brighter place. I will always remember your mom with a smile . It was a true joy to have known her. Thank you for sharing such a lovely part of your family with me.
Sorry for your loss Colin….I remember meeting your mom at MSES, she was so unique. She will live on in the hearts of those left behind.
I am sad to hear of my aunts passing. As a child I fondly remember her humour and kindness. Irene loved her little bus trips with my mother Lillian – I hope they are both continuing their travels together.