It is with great sorrow that we announce Irene’s sudden passing at her Winnipeg home on September 20, 2021. She was 73 years old.

 

She was born in Brandon, Manitoba and grew up in St. Lazare, Manitoba. She was the daughter of the late Lillian Rose Fleury and step-father George Houle. Irene spent much of her early life in the St Lazare Catholic Convent which inspired her towards considering a religious vocation. In the event, her life took a different turn and she later trained in another ‘giving’ career.  She graduated from the Psychiatric Nursing Program at the Manitoba School in Portage La Prairie on September 8, 1971. This led her to work in various Manitoba locations, including Portage La Prairie Manitoba School, Brandon Mental Health, Churchill Community Mental Health and a Winnipeg PCH. As a loving sister, mother and caregiver throughout her life, Irene took immense pride in helping others. 

 

In the latter years, she lived in Winnipeg with her son Shane & his partner Jody who were her greatest supports. Irene also had a great love for her dogs throughout life, Thor, Poochie, Star, Diamond, Sheeba, Bozo and Rocky. 

 

She was pre-deceased by her grandparents (Gabriel & Mary Fleury), mother Lillian Fleury, step father George Houle sisters Rose-Anne and Rosalie and her best friend Agnes. She leaves to mourn, her sons Aaron Bell, Shane Fleury (Jody), sister Penny Pangman (Mike), James Fleury (Sharon), several nieces and friends. 

 

Cremation was in Selkirk, Manitoba and Interment of her ashes will take place at a Graveside service in St Lazare Cemetery on Saturday, October 9, 2021 with Father Christopher Dubois officiating.  

 

Charitable donations can be made in memory of Irene to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.