A valiant veteran – RCAF(WD), Flight Sgt., Code and Cypher Specialist, Enigma and Ultra Secret: An esteemed educator, nurturer of exceptional children (Ottawa); introducer of Family Life Education (Victoria); and volunteer extraordinaire for the Canadian Club of Victoria, Retired Teachers of Ontario, Canadian Cancer Society, First Metropolitan United Church and many more. A full and good life of 101.5 years has ended.
Left to carry on her legacy are her ever loving daughter, Catherine Ann and ten nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald McDonald and six brothers and sisters including three centenarians.
A Memorial Service will be held at First Metropolitan United Church, 932 Balmoral Road, Victoria on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at 1:30PM.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Canadian Club of Victoria’s Camosun College Bursary or the Canadian Cancer Society-BC and Yukon Div. would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences may be offered below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
18 Responses
When I arrived in Canada more than 59 years ago to take up a position in Ottawa, Irene and Donald took us into their home and got us established in Ottawa.
Since that time we have had a special and highly valued relationship with her. We shall miss her very much and never forget her.
I had the honour of helping Irene reflect
on her life, as published in ”Stories United – Harvesting Elders’ Wisdom”. She’s been a mentor and role model for me and many others. I will never forget her indomitable spirit. I will miss her but trust she’ll continue to inspire us.
Dear Catherine. What a wonderful life lived. She made a difference in many lives. I know you will miss her very much. Leah Hollins
It was my privilege to have known Irene. The world is a lesser place without her. Irene accomplished what we all aspire to: make the world a better place.
My sincere condolences to Catherine and the family of which she was so proud.
Cousin Irene was without equal. I met her as an adult and from my first meeting I was impressed by her clear and informed mind. She loved talking politics, was an ardent Liberal supporter and a loyal and devoted Canadian. Irene did not suffer fools lightly and when engaging in a discussion with her one had to talk facts and know what she or he was talking about. I feel very lucky to have known her.
In our journey through life, we are fortunate if we meet a few exceptional people and more fortunate if we can call them ‘friend’. I feel blessed that I was able consider Irene to be such a person in my life.
Her poise, wisdom and interpersonal skills were exceptional to the end. She was a formidable debater and bridge player. You never could take her lightly.
She will be missed and not easily forgotten.
Jim Knock
Catherine, Please accept my condolences on the death of your mother Irene. I have bee fortunate to have been associated with her in our many endeavours together at & for The Canadian Club of Victoria. I will be making a donation to our club’s Bursary in her memory. With my deepest sympathy, Tricia Horne
To Catherine and all the nieces and nephews:
Your Mother and Aunt brought joy to many, always lived life to the fullest, and never ceased to strive to perfect her bridge game. May there be many successful games for her in heaven.
Alison Campbell
Bridge Mentor, partner and friend.
Catherine and family. My deepest sympathies on the passing of your mom, aunt and friend to many. Alison Reid
Dear Catherine,
Your Mother, my Aunt Irene made a difference in this world all her life. She gave of her talents and made the world a better place. I loved her, and you – will miss her good counsel and great stories. Love to you now and always,Sheelagh, Ken and family.