Irene Ashley

Irene, cherished wife, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend, passed peacefully on Thursday, November 10, 2022. Born in Ottawa, October 18, 1931, predeceased by her dear husband Gilbert (Gib) and her lifelong friend Madeleine Tapp. Loving mother of Lynn (Ken Gorny), Bryan (Peggy) and Stephen. Devoted grandmother of Tami (Yves Goulet), Scott (Stephanie), Andrea (Lance Richards), Jay, Megan, Shawn, Bailey and Jessie. Great grandmother of David, Camille, Caleb, Xavier, Kaylei, Julia, Shawn, Emily, Jackson, Brigitte and Isabel. Dear stepdaughter of Margot Cote, sister of Ruth Spicer (Marvin) and Sonny Cote (Rita), and cousin of Sherrill Logue. Remembered with much love by nieces, nephews and many friends.

Irene was a woman devoted to her family and many friends; she was known for her love of Christmas and ever important Birthday celebrations. Irene touched so many lives with her amazing smile, her kindness and love of life – she never forgot anyone, and her adopted family of friends grew over the years. She always had time to think of others, give comfort and sound advice, all with a big hug and a 'love you'. Irene’s drive and people skills were invaluable during her long and varied career – from switchboard operator at Diblee Construction to secretarial positions at CMHC to marketing at Telesat Canada. In her retirement, with her love of people, and not one to sit around, she enjoyed her work with Langdon's Flowers. Even as dementia robbed her of so much, she never lost her sense of humour and sunny smile. Her big heart and generosity live on as her legacy for all who loved her. She taught us, to share a kindness and enjoy the simple things in life; don’t forget to eat cake, drink coffee and have some fudge.

The family wishes to say a special thank you and offer our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Patrick’s Home, especially her caregivers on Cavan, for their kindness, loving care and compassion. In memory of Irene Ashley, donations to St. Patrick’s Foundation would be appreciated.

Memories are timeless treasures of the heart. Life brings tears, smiles, and memories. The tears dry, the smiles fade, but the memories last forever. All are welcome to a Celebration of Irene’s Life, Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, Room 118B, 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa on Monday, November 28, 2022 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.