IRENE MARGARET LEAR (WILLIAMS)

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IRENE MARGARET LEAR (nee WILLIAMS) Suddenly and peacefully on June 13, 2003 at approximately 1:30 in the afternoon Irene passed away at the Riverview Health Centre. She has now joined her husband Walter who predeceased her in 1996. "Good Night Irene." Rest in Peace with Walter and May. Irene was born January 19, 1909 to Herbert Edward Williams and Miriam May Gunstone. They emigrated from Whitechurch, England in 1906. Irenes individuality surfaced early. She was one of twins, but unfortunately her twin died at birth. Irene was predeceased by her three brothers, Harold Llewellyn Williams, her oldest brother, Beresford (Barry) Williams, the second oldest brother, and Charles Montague Williams, her youngest brother. A young woman at 14, her parents, May and Herbert separated with Herbert remaining in Winnipeg employed as a Stage Manager at the Walker Theatre. Irene and her mother May returned to England where May worked for her grandfather as his housekeeper. Irenes work ethic was developed during 7 years as an apprentice working in a pottery factory in Bristol, England. Irene returned to Canada at 21, financed by a Winnipeg writing competition, the prize being a trip back to her birthplace. Irene worked as a waitress in Toronto on her return to Canada. A short time later her mother and three brothers returned to Winnipeg. Her mother being employed as a milliner to support the family. Seven years later she met and married Walter Henry Lear in 1936. Walter and Irene resided in Winnipeg and St. Vital all their lives. Walter worked for the CNR Express for 45 years until his retirement. Irene worked in Winnipeg as a stenographer and clerk for various companies in the Winnipeg area up to her retirement. She had a passion for travelling and visited Australia, China, Russia, and Scandinavia. She leaves to mourn one son Clifford Walter Lear (Myrtle) two granddaughters, Kelly (Rudy) of Vancouver and Darcy (Kelly) of Fort St. John; three grandsons, Trevor (Jenny) of Thompson, Robin (Theresa) of Vancouver, and Jeff of Dundas. Irene also leaves to mourn many nieces and nephews. Irene had survived many friends, and was a devoted wife to Walter, whom she cared for during his battle with Alzheimer disease until he passed away in 1996. Wally was truly a very fine English gentleman. Irene played in the Harmonica band with Creative Retirement for 12 years along with her husband and they will be playing their own tunes, after having been reunited elsewhere. Her final reflection was that she had done the best she could, always under varying circumstances. She lived a challenging life and always rose to the challenge personally, privately, and professionally. She was admired by many. Anybody who met Irene, knew she was quite a character, who remained vibrant, alert and very opinionated...which was part of her charm. Irene was a woman ahead of her time, independent, savvy and smart. However, not a "typical" grandmother and mother in some ways. She was very funny, witty and entertaining. Luckily, this has rubbed off on her son and grandchildren. The Lear wit shall continue. Thanks to the nurses, nurses aids, and staff at Riverview Health Centre. You know who you are on ward CD2 without mentioning individual names. Memorial service, 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18 at Regents Park United Church, 613 St. Marys Rd. (at St. Annes). Interment at St. Vital Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of ones choice. BARDAL FUNERAL HOME 843 Sherbrook Street, 774-7474 Ample Parking Behind Funeral Home Condolences: www.bardalfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 17, 2003