Irene Jane PURCHA

May 30, 1931 - December 13, 2024

In loving memory ~

On Dec. 13, 2024, in the early morning hours, mom passed away peacefully with family by her side at the age of 93.

Irene was born on May 30, 1931 in Lobstick, Alberta to Magloire and Nellie Cardinal. After her mom passed when she was 5, she went to live with her beloved granny. Eventually she followed her older sisters to Edmonton and then travelled north to Whitehorse to work. It was there that she met her husband Tony. After several moves with their young family they eventually settled in the Okanagan Valley in Lavington.

She was the thread that bound our family together as dad worked away so much. While being a devoted mom, an unenthusiastic farmer but spectacular gardener she also held down jobs with Fuller Brush, Lavington Glass Plant and eventually the Vernon Fruit Union/Windfield Apple Packing House for 22 years.

Mom enjoyed all family gatherings especially with the grandchildren, the crazy fishing trips dad took her on, going travelling and being snowbirds, but singing and dancing were her passions. We always enjoyed watching her and dad jive.

Irene was predeceased by her husband Tony, her parents and siblings Alan, Edna, Leonard, Tillie and Marvin. She is survived by her daughters Sheron (Kerry) Parks, Debra (Peter) Valckx, Sandra (Ray) Blair, Cindy (Bruce) Thiessen and Alison (Brad) Heinzlmeir. Grandchildren Chad, Trevor, Joshua, Selena, Kendall, Maverick, Riley, Mariah, Lucas and Taylor, as well as 9 great grandchildren. Also surviving her are 4 of Tony's 11 siblings - Ted, Tommy, Murray and Lilly.

Funeral Services will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 2 pm. Interment to follow at St. Nicholas Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bethel Funeral Home.