Irene Sheila Collins

Beloved wife of Geoffrey for 61 years. Loving mother of Pamela (Paul), Megan (Joel), Wayne, and Ivan (Patricia). Proud and devoted Nana to Daniel, Clara (Lewis), Rachel, Veronica, Nadine, Morgan, Matthew, Simon, and Molly.

Irene is survived by her sister Winifred Massey, sisters-in-law Brenda Thomasson and Tracy Collins, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents George (1989) and Marion (1964), and her sister Gwyneth (1962).

Irene’s life journey began in England, far from the place she would ultimately call home. She came to Canada with Geoff carrying just three suitcases, $300, and a baby in their arms. They landed in Montreal during a snowstorm with no knowledge of the French language, but with determination and hope for a new life. Through hard work and perseverance, they built a life filled with family, friendships, and adventure.

Money was tight in those early years. Irene sewed clothes for the family, baked bread, made jam, and ensured that their home was always warm and welcoming. She was deeply involved in her community as a Brownie leader and made many lifelong friendships through Kinsmen and Boy Scouts.

In 1977, the family moved to St. Catharines for Geoff’s business. As the business grew and succeeded, Irene and Geoff were able to retire early at age 43, opening an exciting new chapter of life. They raced standardbred horses, travelled the world first class, and eventually moved to Craigleith where they became active members of the ski and tennis clubs.

Even while living in Craigleith, Irene and Geoff remained closely connected to Niagara, helping to build the Country Basket Garden Centre. Irene could often be found making lunches, babysitting, sweeping floors, and doing whatever was needed.

Although they loved their life in Craigleith, Irene’s heart was always close to her family. In 2005 they returned to Niagara to be nearer to the people she loved most. Over the years, Irene and Geoff remained closely connected to the UK, returning regularly to spend time with their family.

For over 30 years, Aruba was another cherished home away from home, where the family created countless memories together at Costa Linda. Summers were also spent at Faun Lake, with the trailer beside Pam and Paul’s, another place where family time flourished.

Irene had many hobbies and interests. She enjoyed knitting, crochet, gardening, making hors d’oeuvres, crafts, and taking classes in cake decorating and reiki. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. Above all else, Irene dedicated her life to her family and was a constant source of strength and love to them all.

Irene never sought to be the centre of attention. Instead, she was the quiet light that shone on those around her.

In later years Irene lived with Alzheimer’s disease. As self-doubt and confusion crept in, she gradually withdrew from friends and held closely to her immediate family. We are grateful that she never forgot who we were. She lived in the present, remaining cheerful and happy, and never lost her cheeky sense of humour.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Jayawardene (“Dr. J”), Liliya and the Palliative Outreach Team, Jill and Dan of the Palliative Paramedics, the PSWs from CBI Health, the staff of the Telemetry Ward at St. Catharines Hospital, the team at Greater Niagara General Hospital, and the compassionate staff at Heatherwood Retirement Residence for their care and support for Irene and for the entire family. Special thanks also to the staff at Country Basket Garden Centre for “carrying the load” for Pam and Paul over the past year.

Visitation will be held at Pattersons Funeral Home on Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 9–11 a.m., followed by a service at 11 a.m. in the chapel. A reception will follow.

In memory of Irene, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Niagara.

Although we are deep in grief right now, we will carry on with help from one of mum’s sayings ‘life is for the living’.