Irene Margaret Madsen

It is with the deepest sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Irene “Rene” Madsen, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Dryden, Ontario, Irene moved to Vancouver Island with her family at the age of 15. She met and married Torben in Tahsis in 1967. They lived in Vancouver, next Prince Rupert then settled in the Cowichan Valley in 1973.

Irene's life revolved around family and friends. She will be fondly remembered for her vibrant spirit and zest for living, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the joy and stamina, to keep up with her. Never one to shy away from a new adventure Irene embraced a variety of jobs and seasonal endeavours in the valley before returning to school. Her dedication led to a fulfilling career at Cowichan District Hospital, where she worked across several departments until her retirement. After "retirement", for 10 summers, she brought her laughter, energy and many of her great friends (AKA The Golden Girls) to work with her at the Breakfast Cabana for the Genoa Bay Cafe at the Marina. In her “spare” time Irene enjoyed travelling, reading, knitting, golfing, canning everything from jams, jellies, pickled vegetables and making the best ‘Cabana’ cinnamon buns. Irene's love of music has been passed on to her children and grandchildren as there was always music being played in the Madsen household. Her true passion, however, was quilting and sewing. With an extraordinary eye for colour, texture and pattern, she creatively transformed fabric into personal stories and works of art.

Irene’s greatest happiness came from spending time with her grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy of generosity, charity and laughter, lovingly remembered by her husband Torben; daughters Diana (Gord) and Kari-Ann (Scott) grandchildren; Torren, Carter, Mason and Kyla, sisters; Anne, Brenda, Pauline, Elaine and Patricia, sister and brothers-in-law, many nieces & nephews and dear special friends. Irene was pre-deceased by her brother Andy.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Cutt, Dr. Barr, Dr. T. Rimmer and her various doctors and nurses at CDH and the entire exceptional team at Cowichan Hospice House. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Cowichan Hospice House.