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WILLIAM E. IRWIN
Date of Passing: Mar 26, 2020
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WILLIAM E. IRWIN
May, 1929 - March 26, 2020
He leaves to mourn his loving wife Lorraine (nee Robinson), of 67 years; daughters, Susan, Colleen (Art) and Tracey (Sonny); son Brant (Mona); grandchildren, Josh, Tyler, Brad, Dallan (Danielle) and Cara (Jordan); great-grandchildren, Gavin, Nolan and Audrey; special nephew Todd (Kris). Dad also leaves to mourn his siblings, Tommy (Enid), Dorothy, Kathleen, Leslie (Billie) and Ronnie (Cheryl), and special cousin Bill; brother-in-law Monty in London, ON, sister-in-law Audree in Okotoks, AB; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Dad was born and raised in Winnipeg. His working life began with Crescent Creamery before joining the Canadian Army (Active Force), Royal Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers regiment (REME) as Corporal in 1951. Dad proudly served in the Korean War before being honourably released from the Army in 1954. He was awarded The Korea Medal and The United Nation Service Star. Just prior to going overseas, he met Mom, the love of his life and they married in 1953. Together they raised the four of us, residing in the rural municipality of East St. Paul for the next 53 years, where they took an active role in the community. Dad worked for Imperial Oil refinery for 34 years, starting as a truck driver and later being promoted to dispatcher. He was an avid curler and golfer, enjoying many days on the rink and on the course. After retirement, Mom and Dad were able to travel to many warm destinations to golf and relax, with good friends, Jim and Dwylah. Dad enjoyed the outdoors and we spent many summers at Grand Beach with extended family; fishing from the trestle bridge, swimming at the back beach, walks into Grand Marais and sitting on the veranda enjoying the evening. He also loved his fur babies, Maggie, Pudgie, P.J., J.C. and Cheyanne.
Over the years, as adult children, we have often reminisced about how well and about how proud we are of how we were raised. It is with great respect for Dad when we talk about those days.
As per Dad's wishes, there will be no formal service.
Many thanks to the dedicated staff at River East Personal Care Home (REPHC), who so lovingly cared for Dad. We would also like to thank the REPHC staff for their compassion extended to us during Dad's final days.
Arrangements have taken place in care of Cropo Funeral Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, #10-120 Donald St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2, alzheimer.mb.ca.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 04, 2020
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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My earliest memory of Bill goes back to when he was courting Lorraine. He would arrive in his 1930's era red convertible with a rumble seat. It was in immaculate condition which attested to his mechanical ability. How I envied that car! To me Bill was a man among men, great sense of humour and the life of a party. Wonderful husband, father, grandfather and brother-in-law. He will forever be missed by his loving wife Lorraine and extended family, as well as his many friends. I am thankful that I was able to visit him when I was last in Winnipeg. Rest in peace, - Posted by: Monty G Robinson (Brother-in-law) on: Apr 11, 2020
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Dear Lorraine and Family - so sorry to hear about Uncle Bill. I will always remember him as a quiet and kind fellow, often seen with a small dog wrapped around his neck like a scarf! I have fond memories of my family's trips to Winnipeg and especially the gatherings at your home that always included great food and a cup of tea (or two!). - Posted by: Donna Robinson (niece) on: Apr 10, 2020
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I am so very sorry for your loss, I got along well with him reminiscing about the old days. Keep strong Irwin family. - Posted by: Robert (Friend) on: Apr 06, 2020
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Willie and Loraine always had tea on and offer support to my best friend Frances Spooner and myself in our teen years. Always grateful to them. - Posted by: PATRICIA GRAY (IRWIN family were Good friends ) on: Apr 05, 2020
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So sorry to hear of your loss, we did lose touch over the years but I do remember the times we shared each other's company. Remember the good times and cherish the memories. Ray - Posted by: Ray Newman (Friend through wife Ruth who passed in 2005) on: Apr 04, 2020
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I share very fond memories of our family fun at Grand Beach. My lasting memory I shared with uncle Bill was when I visited him at Deer Lodge. I spoke about Grand Beach and he stopped and looked at me with that beautiful sparkle in his eyes. I choose to think that sparked a memory for him as well. I will miss uncle Bill very much💝 - Posted by: Gale Candy (Neice) on: Apr 04, 2020