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IRENE CUNNINGHAM (LESTRAT)
Date of Passing: Dec 19, 2020
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
IRENE CUNNINGHAM
(nee LESTRAT)
Irene is survived by the love of her life, Bob, husband of 57 years, son Rob (Jean Bodnar), daughter Bonnie Cross, grandchildren, Tyler and Reanna Cross, her sister, Sr. Alice LeStrat, sister-in-law Yvette LeStrat as well as many nieces and nephews.
Irene was predeceased by her parents, Louis LeStrat and Mrie-Jean LeStrat, siblings and in-laws, Andre LeStrat (Dina), Ludovic LeStrat and Joseph LeStrat, Aline Thevenot (Joffre), Marie Carrick (Bill), Adrienne McKinnon, Annette Syrenne (Marius), Germaine Fortin (Paul), and Estelle Goovaerts (Roland), and son-in-law Lysander Cross.
Irene was born in St. Front, Saskatchewan in 1935 and lived there until high school graduation. After business college, her career took her to Nipawin, Saskatoon, Edmonton and then to Winnipeg in 1960.
Upon arrival in Winnipeg she worked as a legal secretary and later became secretary to the President and Vice President of the Manitoba Vegetable Marketing Board. While there, Irene met Bob Cunningham and they were married in 1963. In 1965, they started their family.
Shortly after the children were born, Irene became an active volunteer at the Sturgeon Creek Community Club, organizing volunteers, buying food, and keeping the concession going during community club activities. Irene was Treasurer of the Ladies Auxiliary of Balmoral Hall School for Girls, Chair of Meeting arrangements for the Women's Canadian Club, Chair of the Committee for the Ladies Fashion Show at the Manitoba Club, committee member for the Cornflower Gala – (raising funds for the A.L.S. Foundation), leader for the Kidney Foundation and an active canvasser for the Heart and Stroke, Cancer, Red Shield Appeal and Kidney Foundation. She was also a member of the Catholic Women's League of Canada.
Irene worked in the family business, Cunningham Business Interiors Ltd., for many years, retiring as credit manager.
Irene enjoyed time with her children, driving them wherever they needed to be, Bonnie to and from school at Balmoral Hall, as well as to dance, ballet and skating lessons, and Rob to hockey practices and games throughout the city. She was kept busy attending many functions with her husband Bob, and together they were very active in the community.
Irene played golf, loved to garden and spend time at the cottage in Lac du Bonnet. She enjoyed skating and creating floral arrangements.
Irene was small in stature, but had a huge heart. Her kindness, sense of humour and grace will be remembered by close friends and by those who had an opportunity to spend only a short time with her. Irene's love for her family and friends was expressed in countless ways and was never in doubt. Irene will be missed by all who knew her.
The family would like to thank Dr. Heather Frame, Dr. Neil Berrington and Dr. April Boyd as well as the many caring staff at both Grace Hospital and Health Sciences Centre.
Cremation has taken place and a private service will be held when family can gather. A celebration of Irene's life will be held once the safety of attendees can be assured and the pandemic has passed.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Irene may be made to St. John Ambulance, Grace Hospital Foundation, HSC Foundation or a charity of choice.
For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit www.chapellawn.ca
Chapel Lawn Funeral Home
204-885-9715
Publish Date: Jan 9, 2021
IRENE CUNNINGHAM
(LeSTRAT)
A full obituary will follow in January, 2021.
A memorial service will be held at a later date, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Irene may be made to Health Sciences Centre Foundation, Grace Hospital Foundation, St. John Ambulance or a charity of choice.
For those who wish to sign the online
Guest Book please visit www.chapellawn.ca
Chapel Lawn Funeral Home
204-885-9715
Publish Date: Dec 23, 2020
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 23, 2020, Jan 09, 2021
Condolences & Memories (31 entries)
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Bob, My deepest condolences to you and your family on the loss of Irene. She was such a kind lady. I have fond memories of her from the times I looked after Rob and later also Bonnie. - Posted by: Barbara Sharp (Baby Sitter) on: Feb 27, 2021
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It is with the sincerest of condolences from John and I on the loss of dear Mrs. C.. Although I did not get to spend much time with her, the times we did share were simply wonderful - she made me smile, she made me feel so welcome in whatever event we as a company attended and most of all, she made me laugh. Bob, Rob, Bonnie and family; may you share in remembrance the beautiful memories spent with Irene. She is watching over you now and is without any discomfort or pain. Rest well Irene, sending peace and love to your home in the sky. - Posted by: Corinne and John De Decker (Friend and Employee) on: Feb 09, 2021
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To the Cunningham family, Our Sympathy and Prayers go out to the whole family for your loss. Irene was a beautiful lady. I remember some of the meals we had together at Lewine's place and at Bob and Irene's home. The interesting discussions that followed. She was down to earth, easy to talk to and knowledgeable about all the topics. I also remember showing up at her door one Halloween all dressed up (Lewine, Sharon and Myself) asking for Trick or Scotch and she took us in after we had to show our faces, fed us goodies and scotch! She always had a smile on her face when ever we saw her. What a Sweet lady! Al & Sharon Schachtel - Posted by: Al Schachtel (Friend) on: Jan 19, 2021
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We have very good memories of Irene.Our thoughts are with you Bob and your family.Prayers are sent to you all. - Posted by: Lyle/Lieta Robinson (Friend) on: Jan 17, 2021
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So sorry to hear of Aunt Irene's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please stay safe and take care. - Posted by: Albert & Darlene Bourbonniere (Nephew) on: Jan 12, 2021
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Mr. Cunningham, Rob, Jean, Bonnie, Tyler and Reanna, So sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences. Ashley, Chris and Jackson Fontaine - Posted by: Ashley Fontaine (employee) on: Jan 12, 2021
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Dear Bob, Bonnie, and family, Our heartfelt sympathies on the loss of your beloved Irene/Mom. Our thoughts are with you all. Your BH Family is thinking of you. - Posted by: BH Family - Balmoral Hall School (School) on: Jan 12, 2021
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Bob and family My deepest condolences to all. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this time. - Posted by: Richard Elko (Friend) on: Jan 11, 2021
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Dear Bob & family, Our deepest sympathy to you on the passing of Irene. We met Irene, in Saskatoon, when she was a bridesmaid to my sister, Lorraine, and then reconnected with her when we moved to Winnipeg. Irene was very hospitable, and we would get together when my sister came to visit. She was truly a remarkable person, full of love and laughter. We are keeping you in our prayers. Don & Lil Pavelick - Posted by: Lillian Pavelick (Friend) on: Jan 09, 2021
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VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF IRENES PASSING,SHE WAS A WONDERFUL MOTHER AND WIFE,MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY WAYNE HOGABOAM - Posted by: Wayne Hogaboam (friend) on: Jan 09, 2021
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Our beloved Irene has gone home to her final resting place. She will be greatly missed. She was my aunt and friend and in many ways was like a second mom to me. Bob, Rob & Jean, Bonnie, Tyler and Reanna you will need each other during this season of grief. I pray God's grace on all of you. - Posted by: Joanne Baribeau (Niece) on: Jan 09, 2021
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Bob, Rob and family. Most sincere condolences on your loss. - Posted by: joe Czubaty (friend) on: Jan 09, 2021
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Mr. Cunningham, Rob, Bonnie and Family. Sorry to read of the passing of Mrs. Cunningham. My deepest condolences to you all at this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with you all as you grieve your loss. May she Rest in Peace, she was a beautiful lady inside and out. - Posted by: CONNIE BOTELHO (FRIEND) on: Jan 05, 2021
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Rob and Jean, Sincere sympathy on the loss of Mom. Saddened to learn yesterday of her passing. It has been difficult times for these last months, and made more difficult for her family with the current health crisis. She will be greatly missed. Moms are special. Thinking of you...... Irene Yamamoto - Posted by: Irene Yamamoto (friend) on: Jan 02, 2021
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Auntie was Loving and caring. I didn't know Auntie that well. But what I seen when we were visiting with them was how they talked about how they supported and inspired each other during their struggles in their beginnings in a business vencure. That showed love and dedication. My condolences in your loss to the family. May she rest in peace. ❤ Paulette - Posted by: Paulette Thevenot (Niece) on: Dec 31, 2020
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Dear Mr. Cunningham, Rob, Bonnie and Family. I am truly sorry to hear about your loss. Mrs. Cunningham was a great women and she will be truly missed and will always be remembered. - Posted by: Athena, Phil, and Christian Deschambault (Former Employee) on: Dec 30, 2020
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Bob and Robert, Trevor and I are very sorry to hear of Irene's passing. Our prayers are with you as you adjust to the loss of your wife and mother. She was a wonderful lady. Our sincere condolences, Jenny and Trevor - Posted by: Jenny Motkaluk and Trevor Sprague (Friend) on: Dec 30, 2020
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Bob and family. So sorry to hear of Irene's passing. She was such a sweet and pleasant lady. We had some great times planning your wonderful home. Take care my friend. Maybe we'll see each other in the neighborhood. Ginny Beauchemin - Posted by: Ginny Beauchemin (Friend) on: Dec 30, 2020
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Dear Bob, Rob & Bonnie. Very sorry to hear of Irene's passing. She was always such a nice nice lady to be around. We will always remember that delightful little chuckle of hers. Take Care - Posted by: John & Janice Enright (Acquaintance) on: Dec 29, 2020
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We were sorry to hear of Irene’s passing. Thinking of you and your family with deepest sympathy. - Posted by: Clandeboye Community Club (Long time friend and hometown ) on: Dec 28, 2020
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Mr. Cunningham, Rob, Bonnie and Family. Sorry to read of the passing of Mrs. Cunningham. My deepest condolences to you all at this difficult time, my thoughts are with you as you grieve your loss. - Posted by: Brenda L. MacLennan (Former Employee) on: Dec 28, 2020
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Dearest Bonnie. Today we learned about the Passing of your Beloved Mum one Saturday ago. So Sad to hear about this Heavy Loss. Very Difficult Days for your Dad, your Brother and for You and Tyler and Reanna. In our Thoughts we are With you All. And Wish you All the Strength to bear with this Great Gap in your Daily Life. You will Miss her very much. - Posted by: A.M. Kloezeman (Lyon) and Branwen and Ifan (Aunt and Niece and Nephew) on: Dec 27, 2020
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Sorry to hear about Irene’s passing, Our sincere condolences, Fred & Marianne Ostermamm - Posted by: Fred & Marianne Ostermann (Friend) on: Dec 26, 2020
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Sorry to hear of your loss. Condolences to you and the family, - Posted by: Norman Smith (neighbour) on: Dec 26, 2020
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Bob, I'm very saddened to hear of Irene's passing. Please accept my sincere and heartfelt condolences at this most difficult of times and please pass these feelings onto Rob, Bonnie and their families. Respectfully, Al Jones - Posted by: Al Jones (family acquaintance ) on: Dec 25, 2020
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So sorry for the loss of such a close and wonderful family member and wife. My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Steven Posaluko (Friend) on: Dec 24, 2020
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Deeply saddened to hear of Irene's passing (or as I call her, Mrs. Cunningham). It seems just yesterday when she attended my mom's 80th birthday event. Lots of fond memories of Irene, very sweet, kind woman. She had a cute little laugh and always made you feel welcome. Reflecting back to visits at the house and fun adventures at the cabin, she will be missed. Sending love to Bonnie (and family), Rob and family and Bob (Mr. Cunningham). Thoughts and prayers to you all, Love Anita - Posted by: Anita Posaluko (family friend) on: Dec 24, 2020
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Dear Bob and Family, Maria and I were surprised and saddened to read of Irene's passing. She was a very sweet and loving person. You have our deepest sympathy.Much love,Michael and Maria Mercury. - Posted by: Michael Mercury (Friend) on: Dec 24, 2020
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Bob and Family. Deepest Sympathy for your loss. Irene was a wonderful lady and we will all miss her very much. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Shirley Tabinski (Friend) on: Dec 24, 2020
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To Bob and family My most sincere condolences. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. - Posted by: Lois Howard (friend) on: Dec 23, 2020
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Hi Bob, sorry to here of your loss. Our thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Margaret and Garry Streich (Friends) on: Dec 23, 2020
