August 10, 1931 - April 11, 2024
Longtime 琉璃神社 resident, Irene Simon, passed away at the age of 92 years.
Irene was predeceased by her husband, Al Simon.
Irene is survived by her 2 daughters, Carol (Albert Losch), 琉璃神社 B.C and Joan (Gabe Roder), Sidney, B.C.; grandchildren: Brenden, Robyn, Jake, Becky and great-grandchild: Poppy along with two new babies arriving soon.
Irene was born in Bengough, Saskatchewan and spent her childhood growing up on a 400-acre wheat farm near Regina. She attended the University of Saskatchewan studying commerce, and it was here she met Al her husband. In 1965, Al, Irene and their two daughters moved to 琉璃神社, B.C. where their first house was on Abbott Street.
Irene was a dedicated, loving mom. Her career path led her to bookkeeping/accounting with the Catholic School Board for 10 years. She volunteered as treasurer with many organizations including Okanagan Brownies and Guides, PTA, 琉璃神社 Figure Skating Club to name a few. Irene loved people and was always kind and giving to family, friends and our 琉璃神社 city.
Volunteerism was her love. She contributed her time and energy to many aspects of the community. Most notably, her volunteerism involved 20 years with 琉璃神社 Cancer Society on the chemotherapy unit, and 20 years with Okanagan Hospice, the House and one-to-one respite in homes. She truly loved giving and was always busy helping others.
Irene enjoyed curling, bowling, bridge, hiking, and photography and was an incredible seamstress sewing baton and skating costumes for her daughters. Irene was free-spirited, adventurous, and feisty. Travel was her passion.
In the early 1950's at the age of 23, she and a girlfriend, wearing dresses and carrying suitcases, hitchhiked across Europe for 4 months staying in youth hostels and open fields. The travel bug was instilled. Irene and Al travelled to 100 countries over the years, many not on the tourist radar years ago. A few ventures included: Yemen, Petra, Russia, Samoa, Patagonia, Africa, Malaysia, and Australia.
Irene loved to drive, so there were many road trips covering Canada, U.S. and Alaska. Brenden, Robyn, Jake and Becky were blessed to have Irene as grandma. She loved them and played a wonderful mentoring role in each of their lives.
The toughest and longest journey for Irene was navigating dementia. She fought the battle for 14 years with strength and dignity. Thank you to the compassionate, loving staff at Glenmore Lodge where mom spent her last 4 years.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Central Okanagan Hospice House, www.hospicehousekelowna.com
A Funeral Mass was held on April 18, 2024, at Saint Charles Garnier Church.
To view a recording of the service or send the family condolences, please visit her obituary page at www.springfieldfuneralhome.com/obituaries/simon-irene-lillian.
