IRENE M. DUFF
March 7, 1924 - November 28, 2009
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our dear mum Irene, after a lengthy illness, at home, with her family at her side. Predeceased by her husband, James, in 2002.
Born in Hull, Yorkshire, England.Irene was a dancer and artist from a very young age and earned a scholarship at the Hull College of Art. Upon completing school, when the war broke, out Mom went to work in the city’s Hydro Company Drawing Office and also manned a switchboard for the National Fire Service during the bombing of her home town. Then, like most young people in wartime, got married and started a family, putting ambitions on the back burner.
Married to James Alexander Duff (RAF) in 1944. Dad transferred to the RCAF after the war, together they lived in France, Canada and Germany. At retirement they moved back to England, for about ten years prior to moving to Nanaimo in 1980.
Irene enjoyed her art of painting in oils and water colours as well as different types of dancing which she taught to both children and adults for many years after her family had grown. She was a proud, supportive member of the Nanaimo Art Council for many years and was an active volunteer there.
Both Mom and Dad enjoyed many years involved with Legion 256, & 257 as well as snowbird trips down south in winter.
Mum loved to cook and sew, and her roast beef and Yorkshire pudding dinners and apple pies were legendary.
Loving mother of three children: daughter Angela (Phil); two sons: Andrew (Ruth) and Daniel (Gloria); much loved Gramma to Brian, Jason, Aaron and Allison: great grandchildren: Jack, Henry, Emma, Carver, Joey, Liam and step-grandsons Michael, Aaron, Jason & Julian. Her cat Cindy was a great comfort to her, as was our Laddie.
Irene will be greatly missed by family and friends including her sister Valerie , and other distant family in England. Mum and Dad had 58 wonderful years and are finally together again in heaven. We children had a great, adventurous childhood, including travel to many countries.
The family wishes to thank the caring Home Support team, Home Care Nurses, Doctors, Pharmacy staff, and Reverend Deborah Rivet.
Private service was held.