Irene grew up in Merritton, Ont., playing baseball and skating with her siblings and fishing with her dad. After completing her schooling, she worked at a department store, then married Werner. While he studied engineering, she continued to work. As a young family, they moved to Corning, N.Y., where Irene enjoyed new friendships and joined a bowling league. They returned to Ontario, where they remained and Irene worked at Tabor Manor for 20 years. She served with kindness toward the residents and her co-workers, who held a special place in her heart. Irene rarely lost at Skip-Bo, avidly watched sports, and cooked with love. She devoted her life as a selfless support to her family. She loved all her children and grandchildren equally and unconditionally. Kind and gentle, she listened attentively and wanted what was best for them. The thought of not being present for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s lives brought her sadness, but she was assured she wouldn’t miss a moment in the presence of Christ, her hope.
