August 20, 1936 - May 24, 2024
In loving memory ~
Irene passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024, in Cairnsmore Place with loving family by her side. Irene was predeceased by her husband George, infant son John, parents Hugh Mercer and Impi Sanderson, sister Ginger and brother-in-law Terry Geernaert, and daughter-in-law Linda. She's survived by her children: Lynn Cowell, Derek, Debora (Bruce) Lovely, Lisa (Rick) Bronson, and Kirk (Wanda). Her grandchildren: Tyler Cowell, Jenny-Lynne (Donald) Barber, Tamara Currall, Lacey Telford (Jamie), Ricki-Lee (Greg) Allison, Wyatt Bronson (Taylor) and 11 great-grandchildren. Also survived by her sister Isabel (Bob) Cooper and her brother Robert Sanderson, many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Irene was born in Vancouver and moved to the island when she was 4, spending most of her life in Ladysmith. She married George in 1954: and they had a wonderful life together until his passing in 2011. Irene started her working life as a telephone operator and her last with Canada Safeway but to Irene, being a wife and mother was always her most important job.
Irene enjoyed bowling, skating, swimming, walking, cooking, knitting, sewing, and travelling with George on the motorcycle. She loved spending time with family and friends, and her connection with Ladysmith First United Church and her church family was very special to her. Irene was a volunteer extraordinaire, volunteering many hours with the Ladysmith Historical Society, Girl Guides of Canada, Legion Branch #171, and the Ladysmith Hospital Auxiliary.
A Celebration of Life will be held July 7, 2024, at the Eagles Hall in Ladysmith, 12:00 - 3:00. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice in her name.
"Love you more..."
Service Details
12:00 PM