IRENE BARON

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IRENE BARON After a courageous battle with cancer Irene passed away June 11, 2009 at the age of 86 in the comfort of her home with her loving family by her side. She was predeceased by her parents Norman Beyette and Isabel (Switzer), her brother Lloyd Beyette and daughter Colleen Van Leeuwen. Survived by her loving husband Michael Baron of 62 years, and two grandchildren Joshua Van Leeuwen (Allison) great-grandson Noah, and Jordan Van Leeuwen all of Victoria BC. Irene Baron was born May 31, 1923 in Dauphin, Manitoba where she graduated as an RN and worked until 1960, at which time Irene and Michael bought their first Nursing Home called the Baron Nursing Home. Irene worked as the Director of Nursing. They later went on to purchase the Arcadia Nursing Home where Irene continued to work as the Administrator. Irene and Michael resided on the third floor of the nursing home where their daughter Colleen was raised. Years following they later built the Maples Personal Care Home, River East Personal Care Home and most recently the Irene Baron Eden Centre (Supportive Housing) in 2007. Irene's love of music was always a blessing to those around her. She would never turn down an opportunity to play the piano with those living in the nursing home, at Mayo Clinic, Calvary Temple Senior fellowship or just with her friends at home. Irene's love for others always came before herself. Three nights before passing she was singing (goodnight Irene) with an old time friend of 60 years Roena. Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 16 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Thomson In the Park Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivary Boulevard. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 17, at 12 noon at Calvary Temple, 400 Hargrave Street, with a reception to follow. Irene will be dearly missed by her loving husband Michael Baron, two grandchildren Joshua and Jordan Van Leeuwen and all those that loved her very much. To know Irene was to love Irene. Goodnight Irene THOMSON IN THE PARK 925-1120 Send expressions of sympathy to www.mem.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 13, 2009