Irene Nason
April 2, 1939 - January 27, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Irene Joyce Nason (Hillman) on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the age of 84, in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Irene was born on April 2, 1939, and was raised in Sunshine, ON, with her parents and two sisters. At a young age, Irene met the love of her life Lenard Nason (Len) at the Mokomon dance hall, and they were married on June 28, 1958. They raised their four children in the Sunshine/Finmark area. They created many special memories together as a family playing card/board games, going camping and fishing, and watching dirt car racing. Aside from raising their children, Irene worked various jobs throughout her life including a cook for a highway construction company and an elementary school teacher.
Later in life, Irene and Len continued their love of camping and watching dirt car racing and would often travel far and wide with their adult children and/or grandchildren to see new speedways. Irene was a talented knitter and crocheter and enjoyed making special gifts for her family to enjoy. She found joy in the company of friends at Good Shepherd Village, especially her weekly shopping¬¬ excursions and heartfelt conversations with her cousin Anita. Irene cherished the time spent with her family, especially visits from her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, lunches/dinners with family at Sweet G’s Restaurant and Castlegreen Co-operative, as well as her lengthy phone conversations with her niece, Pebbles.
Irene leaves behind a lasting legacy, dearly missed by her children Darcy, Wendy (Bruce) Nason-Maki, Keith (Cheryl), and Darren (Diane); her grandchildren Michael (Amanda), Karen (David), Brent (Nikki), Jeffrey, Kyle, and Ryan; great-grandchildren Aubrey, Brody, Kendall, Rylee, Raeya, and Adalyn; sister May (Mel); along with numerous relatives and cherished friends.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Len, parents Fred and Eva Hillman, and sister Ruthie Holland.
Irene's wishes for cremation have been honoured, and there will be no funeral service. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.
The family expresses gratitude to those who provided care, including her friend Anne-Marie; the Thunder Bay Transit driver; first responders from Superior North EMS and Thunder Bay Fire Rescue; and the medical professionals at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
Irene's absence will be deeply felt by those who held her in high regard.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
