Obituary of Irene Elizabeth Milne

Irene Elizabeth Milne (née Virag)

It is with great sadness the family of Irene Elizabeth Milne (née Virag) announce her passing. With family at her side, Irene passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Guelph, on February 2nd, 2024, at the age of 88.

Reunited with her beloved husband Ken (2018) and son Douglas (2020). Forever loved and proud Mother to Christopher (Debbie) and Amanda (Edward), cherished Grandmother to Taylor (Akshay), Kyle, Liam and Rory. Deeply loved by her siblings Carolyn (Frank, 2022), Larry (Leta), Eddy (Carol), Linda (Vic), dear sister to the late Gary (1965), Bernice (2009), Gordon (2012) and adored by her many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Irene held an unwavering devotion to family and friends.

Starting as an RNA at the Guelph General Hospital maternity ward, Irene quickly established lifelong friends and a sense of connection to the community, sewn deeper through her unerring dedication working at Norfolk Manor and Caressant Care Retirement Homes. Her unyielding faith through Holy Rosary Church was later nurtured and guided at St. Joseph's. With Ken, she loved and advocated for her extended family at Community Living. She greatly treasured time spent with friends, be it the ladies bowling league, Bridge club, a night of Rummoli or perchance a quick trip to the penny-slots. She was an avid Scrabble enthusiast and her sharp wit and no-nonsense gaze would give any worthy opponent pause. In her later years, Irene endured many trials and losses, yet she met each with her irrepressible love and faith for those around her. Irene was a true example of community, friendship and neighbourly love here in Guelph for over 60 years. There is profound sadness in our loss, but immeasurable comfort as she remains in our hearts. We echo our father, Irene’s dear Ken, “Goodnight Irene, Goodnight Irene, I will see you in my dreams”. The family wishes to thank the east wing second floor team and staff at St. Joseph's. Forever grateful for the compassion and care taken, not only for our mother but also extended to us. You truly treated us, and became to us, family.

A private service will be held in the spring with burial at Mount Saint Joseph Cemetery of Port Colborne. As expressions of sympathy, contributions in memory of Irene to Parkinson Canada or to Community Living Guelph Wellington would be appreciated by the family.