Obituary of Iris Doreen EGGEN

April 15, 1926 – Estevan, Saskatchewan

November 14, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

A life full of love.

Iris Eggen passed away on November 14, 2020 after a remarkable 94 years.

Born in Estevan Saskatchewan but spending most of her life in Calgary, Alberta, Iris lived each day appreciating all that she was given, treating all with kindness and grace, and loving unconditionally. Those qualities were present in everything she did, and especially so towards her daughter Kim Lawrence and her husband Mark Haugrud (a secular saint to her!), their children Kristin Klein, Kyle and Kirk Haugrud (and Kirk’s wife Jaqueline), Kristin’s children Austin and Cole, Iris’ son Bruce Lawrence and his children Ashton and Reece Lawrence, and Iris’ nieces and nephews. Her love for them was unlimited. So too was her love of friends, church, travel, reading and of course bridge which she played competitively until just before her passing.

Her generosity was also unlimited. Every two years for the past 15 years, Iris would take all the children, grandchildren and their significant others, as well as her great-grandchildren whenever possible, to some exotic location around the world. She was up for every adventure, including hot air ballooning in Namibia and Myanmar, swimming with the manta rays and sharks in Bora Bora and bouncing around in a jeep at 5 am on safari in Africa (most recently as last December). While she loved so many things, her greatest love was for her family.

Alas, Iris was not without her faults. She felt excessive pride, not in her own accomplishments, but in those of her children. She could harbour resentment, for never having enough time with her grandchildren. She succumbed to want, to do more for her family and friends. She set unrealistic expectations for her children, but made personal sacrifices so they could achieve them. She was overindulgent, in her support, encouragement and love.

Faith was a part of Iris’ life and her church family meant the world to her, and we have faith that she is at peace.

A celebration of Iris’ Life is planned for 2021 when it can be held safely. For those wishing to express their condolences, in lieu of flowers or donations, we would simply ask that you make an extra effort to reach out to a loved one and support them in your own way during this difficult time; Iris would appreciate that. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Iris’ obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Iris Eggen, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis and Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.