Obituary of Irene Edna Stewart

Irene Stewart, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Saturday, May 30, 2009, surrounded by her loving husband and family. Irene was born in Smoky Lake, AB, the youngest of eight children. She was raised in various Alberta communities before graduating from high school in Edmonton. She married her beloved husband Bob in 1949. She and Bob moved to Calgary with their five sons in 1967, living in the neighbourhood of Scarboro for many years. She treasured the many friendships she developed in Scarboro, and remained close to several good friends from Edmonton. Irene will always be treasured for her deep love for her family and friends, her strong and unwavering spirit and her passion for life. She raised her five sons with a loving nature and firm guidance. Everyone recalls her use of a referee’s whistle to call the boys home for meals. The boys’ many friends always felt welcome in the Stewart home. She was deeply devoted to her sons and their activities, often seen and heard at the rink, playing field or musical venue. Her unflagging commitment to her family was the driving force in her life. Her family was equally devoted to her. Irene was an active mother, homemaker and community volunteer for many years. Later, she enjoyed a second career at the Glenbow Museum. After retirement, she and Bob travelled to many corners of the world, sharing a love of discovery. They treasured their retirement years together. Irene is survived by, her husband of almost 60 years, Robert (Bob), and sons Rob, Neil (Linda), John (Donna), David (Crystal), Thomas (Kimerie); grandsons Sean, Jacob, William, Samuel, Andrew and Ian. She is also survived by her sister Kathleen, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter-in-law Sandy, her brother Neil, her sisters Margaret, Mabel, Alice, Jean and Dorothy and her parents, John and Isabel Kidney. A Memorial Service will be held at Scarboro United Church (134 Scarboro Avenue S.W.) on Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 2:00pm. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to the Alberta Diabetes Foundation, 1-020 HRIF-East University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, 1-800-563-2450 or 1-780-492-6107, www.afdr.ab.ca . In living memory of Irene Stewart, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.