It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Irene Toth at Third Crossing Manor in Gladstone, Manitoba. We have lost a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, aunt, and friend.
She leaves to mourn her passing her four children - Gloria (Dave), Sherri (Gordon), Donna (Craig), and Dean. She also leaves ten grandchildren – Michelle (Dennis), Nicole, Dwayne (Daphne), Sean (Christine), Holly (Scott), Matthew (Rochelle), Andrew (Marisa), Brynae (Nelson), Jenna (Dan), and Jesse. Great-grandchildren are Tracy, James, Hailey, Dallas, Calli, Tristan, Keira, Maeve, Beau, Weston, Payson, and one great-great grandson Nicholas. Also surviving are sisters-in-law Matilda, Hilda, and Doreen as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Lloyd, daughter-in-law Wanda, and brothers Armand and George.
Irene Helen Pare was born on April 27, 1927 in Meyronne, Saskatchewan. In 1945 she married Lloyd and they enjoyed a marriage of 66 years until Lloyd’s death in 2011. Beginning their marriage, they moved to Manitoba with Lloyd’s large family, first to the Pine Creek district, after which the young couple moved to Gladstone. Soon they purchased a farm in the Mayfeld district and in 1960 bought the Mayfeld General Store where Irene became the postmistress. In 1970, she began working at the Gladstone Post Office, rising to position of postmistress in 1984 until her retirement in 1988.
Sociable, friendly, and of a positive nature, Irene was an active and capable member of any organization with which she became involved. She taught 4-H and was active in community organizations. Having a natural affinity for numbers, she was often the treasurer of the group, her last commitment of that nature serving as treasurer for several years for the Gladstone Senior Drop In organization.
Irene curled for several years in her younger days, grew and processed a huge garden every summer, sewed avidly, and knit socks, mittens, and even a few curling sweaters. She became such an accomplished quilter that children and grandchildren lined up to receive a treasured quilt. There was always a quilt as a shower gift, a much appreciated and special memory of Irene. As a result of her warm and welcoming nature, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren looked forward to spending time at Grandma’s and enjoying her baked treats. In all, hers was a long life, well lived, just as she was well loved.
The family would like to express sincere appreciation to the home care staff at Centennial Apartments for their assistance during Irene’s years there. Many thanks also to the staff of Third Crossing Manor who cared so well for Irene in her declining years.
Cremation has taken place and a family celebration of her life will take place at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Irene’s memory may be made to Gladstone Seniors Inc., Box 642 Gladstone MB R0J 0T0.
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