IRENE ITSUKO OKANO (SAKAMOTO)

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IRENE ITSUKO OKANO (nee SAKAMOTO) February 23, 1932 August 22, 2010 On Sunday, August 22, 2010, Irene passed away peacefully at the Health Sciences Centre with her children at her side. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Russel on December 3, 1982. A graduate of Lord Selkirk High School and Success Business College, Irene was employed by the National Employment Office Unemployment Insurance Commission from 1950 1961. During this time, Irene also joined the Canadian Women's Army Corps. She was one of a select few to attend the Non-Commissioned Officers training camp in Banff, AB. She received her sergeant's stripes and was attached to the Canadian Intelligence Corps. When her husband started his own business, Okano Terrazzo Tile Ltd in 1966, she managed the company office, first from their home and then at 130 Marion Street. Predeceased by her father Heikichi (1957), her mother Hatsune (1975), sister Mitsy (1978), sister Deanna (1995) and sister Barbara (2002). She is survived by her beloved children, Allan (Shirley) and Pamela, grandsons Adam and Ryan, sisters Connie and Lucy as well as numerous nieces and nephews. While raising her children, Irene dedicated herself to community work as a canvasser and area chairperson for the Red Cross, and a canvasser, zone leader, area chairperson and regional chairperson for the United Way (Community Chest) from 1962 - 1978. She was an active member of the Pirates Community Club and a volunteer at Regent Park School. Irene was also the Secretary-Treasurer and Provincial Technical Chairperson for the Manitoba Rhythmic Sportive Gymnastics Association from 1977-1984 and travelled extensively across Canada and Europe with the Provincial Team. As founder of the Transcona Gazelles in 1979, the MRSGA established an annual volunteer award in her honour. In 1983, she was presented to Lt. Gov. Pearl McGonigal as one of the nominees for the Provincial Outstanding Volunteer Award. After receiving her certification from U R Tax Services, Irene was a volunteer tax preparer for Revenue Canada from 1985 - 1995. In 1985, she was back doing volunteer work for the Manitoba Cancer Society and the MB Heart Stroke Foundation as Area Chairperson, receiving her 20 year service pin in 2005. Her husband Russel encouraged her and was very proud of her involvement with the community and she, in turn, was very proud of her children's and grandchildren's participation and achievements in sports and academics. Irene was a proud member of the JCCA, JCCC, MB Buddhist Church and the Transcona Seniors and Good Neighbours groups. She took up golfing in her 50s and enjoyed golfing 3 - 4 times a week in various leagues with many good friends. Over the years, Irene was also very active with line dancing, aerobics, the Saturday night poker games, and tai chi. With her great sense of humour, Irene was always the life of the party. Even with her many volunteer commitments and hobbies, Irene always put her family's needs first. She was the one everyone went to for guidance, advice, and support. Family and friends knew that if you wanted something done, you went to Irene. Following Irene's wishes, no service will be held. A private family burial is planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare or the MB Heart Stroke Foundation. Funeral Home Crematorium 843 Sherbrook Street, 774-7474 Condolences: www.bardal.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 28, 2010