Irma Eileen Kilner

June 5,1940 - April 28, 2017

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Irma Kilner. She is predeceased by her partner, Robert Charles Gmitroski; her parents, Vera Hogue (nee Gowing) and

Henry Hogue; and maternal grandmother Florence Gowing. Irma is survived by her daughters Deborah Gorlick (Rock) of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and Lisa Kilner (Brent Kenny) of Vancouver BC; her stepsons Wynn

Gmitroski (Brenda) and Sheldan Gmitroski (Susan) of Victoria BC; and her grandchildren: Cameron, Carmen, Jalen, Keira, Taryn and Krysta-Leigh.

Irma was born and raised in Winnipeg, MB. She started working for the CN as a teletype operator but upon threat of transfer to Regina, she joined the Royal Canadian Armed Forces where she met her

first husband, Gordon Kilner. Their life together took them from Northern Ontario to Europe, and back to Canada where they resided in Alsask SK, Penhold AB, Edmonton AB, and Yorkton SK. After a move to

Winnipeg, Irma met Bob Gmitroski and their 18 year union resulted in a move to Victoria BC from Tyndall MB prior to his untimely passing in 1999.

Irma will be remembered for her love of her family, her shopping prowess, her driving skills, her love of technology, her fondness for travel, her volunteer work at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Auxiliary and

her total fascination with dogs of all shapes and sizes but in particular; for Shelby and Sadie.

Irma battled for many years with a number of health issues but maintained a sense of humour and unwavering grace throughout her many challenges. As per Irma’s request, there will be no service but a family gathering to

celebrate her life will be held later this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the S.P.C.A. or a charity of your choice. The family also

wishes to thank Dr. Daisy Dulay and Dr. Tim Troughton for their compassionate care over the past couple of years.

Do not stand at my grave and weep

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there. I did not die.

Mary Elizabeth Frye

Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services, Vancouver, BC.