IRIS MARY ROSS (SAWKA)

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IRIS MARY ROSS (nee SAWKA) May 16, 1940 - July 13, 2009 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Iris, who passed away peacefully at the age of 69. Iris is survived by her three sons, Brad (Kathy), Bryan (Elaine) and Brent (Tarya); and grandchildren, Alex, Cara, Ethan, Sydney, Brianna and Luke; and a number of close extended family members. Predeceased by her parents, Alec and Pearl; and by her beloved husband of 41 years, David, in 2005. Iris was born in Edmonton, Alberta where she spent the first years of life, before moving East to Manitoba. The only daughter of an entrepreneur, Iris moved frequently during early childhood before she and her family took up roots in Transcona in the late 1940s. Iris attended Central School and Transcona Collegiate, where she made a group of life long friends and met future husband, Dave. Thereafter, she took employment in the offices of John Deer and Merchants Consolidated before joining the Transcona School Division where Iris worked as a secretary in various schools for 22 years before retiring in the year 2000. Iris always loved her involvement with the schools and the kids she came across daily. Iris was an avid reader - always having a book on the go . In her post retirement years, winter getaways and summer time at the lake were highlights Iris would look forward to sharing with friends and loved ones. Many memories have been created from the time spent at the cabin. Iris was also dedicated and gave her time to the Transcona community. She was very involved with the Transcona Jaycettes. In addition to being a devoted hockey mom for many years, Iris also acted as convener of a local minor hockey league for a couple of seasons. However, Iris' greatest dedication was to her family. She was the provider. She gave unconditional support. No sacrifice was too daunting for the sake of her husband, children or grandchildren. After the passing of her husband, Iris showed tremendous strength despite the loss. She continued to be the guardian of her family's well-being and we know she will be forever watching over us. A memorial service will be held at the Transcona Funeral Chapel, 1800 Day St., at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 20. Honorary pallbearers - Fred, Joe, Jason, Darren, Curtis and Karla (Iris' nephews and niece). Family interment to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the St. Boniface Hospital Research Foundation; Palliative Care Unit. Mom loved us unconditionally. We were all her favourites We love you too Mom.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 15, 2009