May 1, 1934 - November 23, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
Irene was born on May 1, 1934 on the family farm in Orion, Alberta, where she enjoyed an idyllic early life. Irene was a loving mother, grandmother, wife, friend and soul. She embodied many gracious qualities: strength of spirit, compassion, and a deep generosity evident in her love for family, friends, and animals.
In 1958, Irene married her husband, Robert, and moved to Vancouver, where she began her career at Ford Motor Company as a credit analyst. She loved her job almost as much as the friendships she formed. In 1973, Irene and Robert traded city life for Cache Creek following the purchase of a motel, which they operated for five years before returning to Vancouver.
Her early years of retirement were enjoyed on an acreage in Lumby, with days filled by fond memories of animals, gardening, and rural life that reflected her childhood. She moved back to Kelowna and eventually Nelson to live out her final years close to family.
Irene had an enthusiasm for life and played on a women's hockey team in Richmond throughout the 1960s. She cherished her yearly escapades, including weeklong visits to the Vancouver PNE with her son and skiing every weekend at Mount Baker with her family. Irene loved her many cherished lifelong friends, who affectionately referred to her as "Rene."
She had an artistic appreciation for the world and was an avid knitter. Irene's four-legged friends were dear to her and she was involved in the Kelowna SPCA for years. She is joined on her long walk by many beloved companions.
Irene is predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Robert; parents Lawrence and Florence Biesterfeldt; sisters Dorthea (Charles), Doris (Paul), Doreen (Bill); brother Bill (Violet); beloved cousin Eddie Loos; cherished lifelong friends; and a baby brother who died at birth. She is survived by her son Munro; granddaughter Raeleigh; and Melanie Buerge.
We would like to thank those who cared for her with compassion and respect, most recently at Nelson Jubilee Manor.
She will be greatly missed and loved.
In lieu of a service, those who wish to remember Irene may make donations to the SPCA.
For more information and to leave a message of condolence, please see the Thompson Funeral Services website https://www.thompsonfs.ca