RAYMOND WILSON IRWIN

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

RAYMOND WILSON IRWIN It is with great sadness that we announce the death of a dear brother, uncle and cousin after a courageous battle with Alzheimers. Raymond was born on the family farm at Belmont, MB, May 24, 1918, and passed away peacefully at the George Derby Centre in Burnaby, BC, September 15, 2004, at the age of 86 years. He was a man of strong conviction, loved a good debate and always had a cheerful laugh and smile. Raymond was predeceased by his father Thomas Irwin, November 27, 1947; his mother Margaret Spring, June 4, 1969; his brothers, William, September 21, 1979, Archibald, November 11, 1956, Thomas, January 21, 1988, and Stanley, October 21, 1961; and his sister Jane (Mrs. John Mackie) on August 21, 1973; also niece Cleo; and nephews, Donald and Gordon. He is survived by his sisters, Catherine (Mrs. Walter Cove) of Selkirk, Iva (Mrs. Robert Shaw) of Killarney; and a brother Lloyd of Winnipeg; also nieces and nephews, Judy, Penny, Bob, Tommy, Tranna, Alan, David, Chris and Margaret Ann. He served during the Second World War with the 18th Armored Car Regiment, 12th Manitoba Dragoons, joining on May 22, 1941, in Winnipeg, and later serving in England, France, Belgium, Netherlands and Germany, being discharged December 14, 1945. He worked as a carpenter for a majority of his life. After retirement, he worked as an elementary school custodian. Working with these young children became the love of his life until his then permanent retirement. Not taking a liking to the cold prairie winters, Raymond sought employment in the Vancouver area in 1947 and resided there since. Never forgetting the nice summers and much family, he ventured back almost every year while he could. A special thanks to his doctor, Daniel Froese, and all of the nurses and support staff for their loving care, compassion and kindness toward Raymond. The care received from the George Derby Centre (a Veterans facility) was outstanding and allowed him to maintain his independence and dignity throughout his illness and time there. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 22 at 2:00 p.m. in the Belmont Community Hall with Rev. Cole Grambo officiating. Interment to follow in the Hillside Cemetery, Belmont. If friends so wish, donations may be made in Raymonds memory to the nearest Alzheimers Society or a charity of ones choice. Jamieson Funeral Service of Baldur-Glenboro in care of arrangements. 204-827-2480 or 1-866-460-7846.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 21, 2004