Obituary of Ilene Margaret Mary McWilliam

It is with great sadness that the family of Ilene McWilliam announce her passing from this life on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at the age of 85 years. Born in Toronto, Ilene grew up in the turbulent years of the late ’20’s and early ’30’s and at the age of nineteen, met the dashing young airman who would become her husband after his service in WWII. Ilene married Roy in 1945 and after the birth of their first son Rob, moved to Morse, SK in 1949 to a life of farming. Their other two children, Dave and Carol, were born there. During those years, Ilene lovingly tended a huge farm garden, a bountiful rhubarb patch, and a line of prolific raspberry bushes. We were never short of desserts and jams! Her other passion was knitting which was lucky for us kids with those old-time Saskatchewan winters. Ilene was also an active member of the CWL and the Royal Purple for over forty years. In 1997, after seeing all three children move to Calgary, and having been retired for a number of years, in order to be closer to the family which by then had grown considerably, they moved to Strathmore, AB to their retirement home in Lambert Village. Ilene’s health began to fail in 2007, resulting in a move for her and Roy to the Beverly Centre at Lake Midnapore in Calgary where they have resided until her passing. Ilene is survived by her devoted husband Roy McWilliam; three children, Carol, Dave (Linda) and Rob; six grandchildren, Sara, Chad, Kirk (Michelle), Russell, Richard (Gen), and Jacqueline (Scott); and three great-grandchildren, Arabella, Luke and Dylan. She is also survived by her sister Helen. Ilene was predeceased by her parents William (Bill) and Ledemma Wheater; and two brothers, Wilfred and William Jr. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church (1414 Shawnessy Boulevard S.W.) on Monday, March 31, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. Ilene’s family would like to express their deep appreciation for the care she has received over the last nine months from the staff at the Strathmore and Rockyview General Hospitals and the Beverly Centre. In living memory of Ilene McWilliam, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: (403) 256-9575.