Obituary of Irene Baker

June 8, 1946 – Richmond Park, Alberta

May 21, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

Irene Baker (nee Los) beloved wife of the late Alfred "Fred" Taylor Baker, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2022, at the age of 75 years.

Irene was born in Richmond Park (Athabasca), AB, to the late Antonina and Antoni Los. They were Polish immigrants and farmers, who ended up raising an impressive twelve kids. However, farm life ultimately wasn’t for Irene, so she moved to Calgary, AB, in her 20’s for the action of the city. She worked full and part-time as a restaurant server for much of her life (fueling her legendary gift of gab). She also did collections for the Calgary Sun newspaper and occasionally “horticultural consulting”.

Irene and Fred shared a wealth of good friends and hosted many, many parties, and BBQs, (with only a modest number of noise complaints). Those farming roots ran deep, as she loved planting flowers and was famous for her colourful backyard (often extending into the rest of the neighborhood). This also translated into her love of bold, bright colours in both clothes and décor. Irene spent her retirement years gardening for both herself and anyone else that asked, talking extensively with friends, enjoying her extended family, and the occasional tropical vacation.

Irene is survived by her son Russ, five stepchildren, and three daughters-in-law, Dean, Bruce (Sandy), Mark (Sandra), Craig (Jan), and Vicki; as well as fourteen step-grandchildren, and twenty-seven step-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers Alexander and Earl, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Irene was predeceased by her loving husband Fred; her parents Antonina and Antoni Los; three brothers James, Chester, and Ed; and six sisters Alina, Agnes, Lilli, Millie, Elise, and Margaret.

A Celebration of Life for both Irene and Fred will be announced at a later date. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Irene Baker, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.