Irene Ramsay passed away peacefully on August 6, 2013 at the age of 85. Irene was born September 24, 1927, in Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan and grew up in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
Irene is predeceased by her husband Larry in December 2004. She is survived by their children Maureen (David) Moen of Salmon Arm, Gloria Ramsay of Salmon Arm, Ron (Cheryl) Ramsay of Vernon and Loraine (Jim) Ramsay-Parsons of Surrey. She is also survived by her grandchildren Emily and Aaron Moen, Jarred and Jason Peterson, Ryan and Derek Ramsay, Celina and Cynthia Duran; and her seven great-grandchildren Ivan, Ariel, Carlos (D’Ramsay), Seth and Kestral Peterson, Lukas and Kaitlyn Peterson.
Irene entered the Forces joining the Women’s Army Corps where she was a dancer, and entertained the troops with her amazing dancing abilities. She met the love of her life. Larry, in Vancouver in early 1947. They were married in November 1947 and had their first child 2 years later. Living the Army life and living in places such as Vancouver, Regina, Fort Churchill, Victoria, Germany, Petawawa, Winnipeg and finally moving to their retirement property in Salmon Arm in 1973.
Irene did custodial work for libraries in Winnipeg and then several doctors’ offices as well as the hospital in Salmon Arm. When she was 51 she decided to take a hairdressing course in Salmon Arm, passed with flying colors and had a successful hairdressing business working out of her home. At 64, Irene decided to take art classes and fell in love with oil painting. Her paintings were shown in several art shows and many were commissioned and sold. The homes of her children, family and friends are adorned with her works. At 80, and unable to paint anymore because of her vision, she rediscovered her love of dance. She filled her time dancing several days and nights a week enjoying the music of the Jammers and dancing with her favorite partners.
Irene was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish devoting much time and energy to the church and to the Catholic Women’s League.
Irene loved people. Her beaming smile was one of her most attractive features. Irene was lively, energetic, creative, talented, loving and loved.
A memorial service was held at St. Joseph’s church in Salmon Arm at 11:00am on Tuesday, August 13, 2013. Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society are requested in lieu of flowers.
Online condolences can be sent through Irene’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Service, Salmon Arm, BC.