Irene Rosella Switzer

Irene was predeceased by her parents George and Ida; younger brothers Clarence and Gerald; and her husband of 73 years, Clarence.

She is survived and dearly missed by her six children Sharrol (Steve), Shelley (Len), Orrin (Colleen), Cal (Jan), Shar (George), Bernie (Joan); 11 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren.

Baba and Papa began their journey together when they were married in 1949 and they moved next door to her parents in Wetaskiwin, Alberta. While Papa learned the sewing business working for Singer, Baba stayed home to raise their growing family. In 1959 Papa was offered a manager position at the Singer store in Prince George. He accepted the transfer and he and his lovely bride packed up their four young children and moved to Prince George, where they bought a nearly new home in Millar Addition subdivision--only two blocks from the beautiful Fort George Park. In 1969, after having two more children, they opened their own business, Switzer Sewing Centre. They ran the business together for 30 years while they finished raising their children in that same Miller Addition home, where they lived for 63 years.

In addition to raising the family and partnering in the business, Baba’s other interests included bookkeeping, sewing and serving the Lord. Her sewing skills were second to none and as a result, she was invited to teach the new stretch and sew techniques to many ladies groups and local schools. She was also whole heartedly involved with Women’s Aglow for many years and travelled to numerous locations with the ladies group.

Baba, also known as “love bubbles”, loved parties and gatherings but especially loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. At family gatherings she was often heard giggling uncontrollably, as she was relentlessly being teased by her sons. In addition to her giggles, Baba will be remembered for her famous Jello salads (green with cream cheese and or the red with sliced fruit) and her amazing pie crusts. All so very yummy! She will also be fondly remembered as a supportive, present gramma and great-gramma, that regularly kept in touch and often treated her loved ones with gift cards.

Although we know that God is pleased to have one of His angels back in His arms, and she has been reunited in Heaven with her husband and best friend of 73 years, Irene is deeply missed here on earth.

Irene and Clarence will be laid to rest back where their life together started, in Wetaskiwin, Alberta.

The family would like to thank Pastors Ron Gray and Harry Dreher; Dr. Nadeem (Tamara) and Dr. Carter; the PCMU team; Primary Care Unit 1; Angela at Assman's; and the Prince George Council of Seniors for all their support, care and understanding. We would also like to thank the Prince George Hospice House team for providing Irene with peace and comfort in her last days. Please consider a donation to the Prince George Hospice House in Irene’s memory.