Irene Susan (McGilvery) Town, aged 91, passed away peacefully, at the Carpenter Hospice in Burlington on Saturday, August 4, 2018. Her three children were by her side.

Born March 14, 1927 to Bill McGilvery and Grace Campbell, she grew up in Hamilton. Her older brother, Jim (Val-deceased) died last year, aged 95. Irene’s only niece Linda was visiting and sharing stories just two days before she died.

Irene met her future husband Henry “Bus” Town while studying Political Economy at McMaster University. After graduating in 1949, top of her class, Irene worked for a year at Imperial Life in Toronto and returned to Hamilton to work for Bell Canada before having her family.

Irene and Bus were married for 40 years, until his death in 1991. Together, they raised their children: Susan Roszell, Carol Town (Richard Harris) and David Town (Patti Town). She was the much-loved Grandma of eight: Christopher (Larissa) and John (Andrea) Roszell; Alexandra (Chris Langford) and Peter Harris; and, Nikki (Reid Moran), Michael (Kaly), Laura (Graham Jenkins) and Kevin (Martina) Town – and Great-Grandma, affectionately known as GG, to eight and almost nine.

Irene’s interests were wide-ranging - from bridge and books, to upholstery and furniture refinishing, to curling and cottaging. She and Bus spent many happy years with family and friends at their cottage in Haliburton. Prior to his death, they enjoyed several trips together; Irene continued her love of travel, visiting many different countries until just a few years ago.

She was a dedicated volunteer at her Churches: St. John’s in Ancaster, St. Bride’s in Mississauga and St. Luke’s in Burlington. She also served with the Canadian Cancer Society, University Women’s Club, the Red Cross and Meals on Wheels. Most of all, she was the matriarch of a large and busy family.

We would like to thank the wonderful caring staff at Martha’s Landing where Mom spent the last six years of her life. Our deep appreciation also extends to the staff of Carpenter Hospice who treated Irene and her family with compassion and dignity as she lived her last days.

A memorial service will take place at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, (1382 Ontario Street, Burlington) on Thursday, August 9 at 11:00 a.m, with refreshments to follow in the Church Hall. Private interment will be at a later date. Donations may be made to the Carpenter Hospice or a charity of your choice.