Obituary of Irene MacDonald
Irene Shirley MacDonald
1940 - 2022
It is with great sadness that after a long and courageous battle with COPD and lung cancer, Irene passed away peacefully with her family by her side in her 83rd year on Thursday, June 2, 2022. Irene was born on May 28th, 1940 in Georges River, Cape Breton Island and was the daughter of the late Patrick and Annie (Cresser) Jessome. Irene was the loving and devoted wife of the late John MacDonald. Cherished mother to Andy MacDonald (Lisa) of Ferndale, Cindy Russell of Guelph, and Ryan MacDonald (Rachel MacNeill) of Sauble Beach. Proud Grandma of Ashley (Cedric), Aaron (Jess), Zachary, and Breanna and Great Grandma of Breton John and Emillie Irene.
Irene was the most selfless person in and out always putting others first. She always went without to ensure others had what they needed. She had an endless love for her family and fur babies. An animal lover throughout her life, always willing to take care of stray animals. In fact, often people would drop off their unwanted pets to the house as they knew she would not say no, and the door was always open.
She was a caring, loving, nurturing mother and whenever you had a question, we would call mom for her home remedy. A very wise woman about everything in life and she was always the one you wanted on your team for family games.
Irene is survived by her brother Darryl (Mary-Lou) and her sisters Sharon and Marie (Harold). She was predeceased by her brothers James, Phonse, Lloyd, Melvin, Adrian, Bill, Syd and Pat and her sisters Tina, Lois, and Patricia.
She will be missed greatly by her close friend Nancy Ducker as well as her fur baby Paige who was always at her side.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Engmann, Dr. Glick of Grand River Cancer Hospital and Dr. Fenn of Palliative Care Owen Sound. Special thanks to PSWs Judy, Katherine, and Penny as well as the VON nurses.
Thank you to Karen McKenna - we were extremely blessed to have you come into our lives and bring joy to mom in her last few months. Special thanks to her daughter-in-law Rachel for her unconditional love and support for all these years. To mom's baby boy and our baby brother Ryan, you gave mom her wish of staying home and we are forever grateful.
We love you mom, say hi to Dad for us.
Worrying does not take away tomorrows troubles it takes away from today’s peace.
Private family arrangements entrusted to the DOWNS AND SON FUNERAL HOME, Hepworth. Expressions of remembrance to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Grey Bruce Animal Shelter would be appreciated. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family through www.downsandsonfuneralhome.com