I just learned of my dear friend Irene's passing. I am so shocked and saddened. My sincere condolences to her husband and family.  You meant the world to her despite her active life. Irene was one of a kind---hard worker, dedicated supporter in her organizations and fun-loving. I was hospitalized and unable to attend her Celebration of Life. She was the best friend one could ever hope to have. May her soul rest in peace. Sincerely Gloria Marshall past,-president PC Women's Association of N.S.

Irene was so kind to my father, Martin Reinhardt, when he lived at Melville (many  years ago).  We appreciated her care.

Irene was a beacon and an icon of the very best activism and volunteerism in her community and for the province. I was honoured (and I am grateful) to have met and worked with her. All our heartfelt thoughts, prayers and condolences to all her friends and family.

Irene, you were always a welcoming face to see at any Tory function.  I can see you smiling.  Stay with us in spirit.  Will miss your wise counsel.

Irene was a constant in my life as a political mentor, and as a friend. We had many great times traveling the province and attending political meetings.  My world will not be the same without Irene, I will miss her more than words can say.

Condolences to Harold, other family members, and her many friends.

Pat,  I was so sorry to read of Irene’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jim and Carol McAllister

If one were to describe Irene, it would be dedicated, hard working, and fiercely loyal. Whether it was toward work, family, friends, her community and of course politics, Irene's memory will continue  beyond her lifetime. We are all enriched by her time with us.  Together may each of us say Thank you. 
Condolences to Harold, Gregory, Declan, Brian, Pat and family.

Our condolences to Harold and the family.  I had known Harold from when I worked at Wm Stairs, Son And Morrow.  Became acquainted with Irene when my mother entered Melville.  The care, compassion and communication with Irene on my mother's care was above and beyond.
Our thoughts are with the family.

Hi Pat,  Sincere condolences on the loss of your sister Irene.  I remember meeting  her a number of times with you, at various functions at the Mount and elsewhere.  She was a big asset to many communities and for sure will be missed.  Marguerite Muise (MSVU alum) 

As the Member of the Legislature representing the riding of Armdale 2013/2021 , I often visited Melville heights and was always welcomed by Irene with open arms and a smile.  I remember the very first time when i was campaigning in the summer of 2013 in my first election - Although I was a liberal  candidate, Irene’s first concern were the residents and she took a liking to me because she felt i would do a good job and represent them well.  Im happy to say her opinion of me continued and when i became her MP- she told me so. I have so many memories with her at so many community events. She touched many lives and will be missed.  Rest in Peace 

To Harold and family:    May good memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.  

Trudy  and Kevin MacDonald

So sorry to hear of Irene's passing.  She was so fortunate to have such excellent health throughout her life.  It was nice that she didn't have a prolonged illness before she passed away.  She will be missed. 
Genevieve and Lorraine Richardson 

My late wife Zalina  and I welcomed Irene into our home every Saturday morning for years.  She became like family not just another customer of Zalina coming for a haircut. Their friendship endured for many years and I will always have fond memories of our Saturday morning chats. My condolences to Harold and family. I want Declan to know how much she loved him.  I listened to Irene talk with so much pride of Declan when he played hockey.

Brian Hook



I met Irene in the late 70s when we were both passionate political volunteers. Irene was the Roadrunner and Tasmanian Devil of NS politics. She was everywhere, doing everything and she knew everyone. Irene was dynamic.

I am beyond grateful to have had Irene's daughter Karen as my dearest friend. I hope the two of them are at peace and surrounded  with love.

Deepest sympathy to Harold and Pat who were always there for Irene and to all the family.

My sincere condolences to Irene's family. I met her many years ago by chance: We were knocking on doors for our (different) political parties and I found her to be an extraordinary  person.
Many years later, while she was in charge of Melville Heights retirement residence, I had opportunity to visit in case that I should visit on a more permanent basis. She was charming, as always A little while later I had a call from the office of the just elected Member of Parliament  by the name of Justin Trudeau. And could I please arrange a meeting with seniors in a retirement home?  Irene came to mind  automatically. I called and she was thrilled to welcome him! The afternoon went well and many photos were taken; I am sure that her family will probably find them among her effects! Irene was the kind of person who makes our democracy work well! I really liked her!

Rest in peace, dear Irene. I will never forget your friendship and kindness to the Keane family so many years ago, when we lived near you.  Our condolences to your family.  God bless.
Mary,  Van, and Lee Keane. 

So sorry to hear of your loss! Sending love and light.

So sorry to learn of Irene's passing. Years ago, we were real estate industry colleagues. My sympathy to Harold &  entire family.

My sympathy to the family . She was everything her obit said . Knew her years ago and reconnected at Melville . She loved that job and  residents felt the same about her 

Irene became family when Karen and I met in High School becoming fast friends. Even though we have rarely communicated in the years since Karen's death, knowing Irene is gone is Like loosing a piece of myself. Thoughts and prayers go out to all who loved her. Edward, Bill and I are thinking of each of you.

Franki
 (Frances Coffin) Buott

OBITUARY

Irene Theresa Swindells

26 September, 1936 – 4 July, 2022

JA Snow Funeral Home

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