Irene Lapensee passed away at the Health Sciences Center of Winnipeg on May 31, 2018 after a short battle with cancer.

Irene is survived by her daughter Julie (Jason) Graveline, grandchildren Carter, Ethan and Leo Graveline, brothers Ernest (Linda), Robert (Leona) and Michel Lapensee, and sister Adele (Jean) Daigneault. Irene is predeceased by her parents Noel and Eva Lapensee and sister Reina (late Hubert) Matte.

Irene was born and grew up in Cornwall, Ontario and then moved to Ottawa to start her working life. She worked for the Royal bank, the federal government, and as a legal secretary among other employment during her working life. She joined her daughter Julie in Nova Scotia in the mid 90's and found a new love, the Atlantic Ocean. She decided to stay there when Julie left and created a life with friends in the place she loved. Upon her diagnosis, she moved to Winnipeg to be close to family. She remained very positive right to the end and received great care in Halifax prior to her move and then in Winnipeg afterwards.

Irene was always true to herself and spoke her mind. She loved her family and lived her life with vim and vigour. She was always passionate about the causes that she believed in and was very open-minded. She loved with her whole heart.

As per Irene's request, there will be no formal funeral service. At a date to be set in the future, her ashes will be scattered in the Atlantic. For those who wish to honour Irene's memory, please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Manitoba Down Syndrome Society on behalf of her grandson Leo.