Irene Nattialie Jowett

Irene came into our lives a few years after the passing of our mother, Margaret Jowett, and quickly became a shining star in our family. She brought immense joy to our father, Donald, and filled all our lives with warmth, love, and laughter. Irene was giving and genuine, always going out of her way to show her love. She had a beautiful smile, an unwaveringly positive outlook on life, and a presence that could light up any room.

Irene was born in Fosterburg, Illinois, and was raised on the family farm. While farm life was not for her, it shaped her strong spirit and independence. She went on to live an exciting and accomplished life, becoming a successful businesswoman and the owner of Star Advertising. In what was very much a man’s world, Irene thrived. She loved her work and treated her employees like family. Through her career, she worked with notable names including Disney, Burt Reynolds, Rock Hudson, Michael Landon, Dolly Parton, Charlton Heston, Dudley Moore, Steven Spielberg, and many other iconic figures of the era.

Irene spent much of her adult life in New Orleans before moving to Canada, where she met Donald. They shared 26 loving years together until his passing. Anyone who crossed paths with Irene would never forget her. She was glamorous and stylish, always dressed impeccably, with her hair and makeup perfectly done. She was truly one of the most positive people you could ever meet.

Irene was also incredibly thoughtful and attentive. She made it a point to send cards for every occasion; Valentine’s Day, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, birthdays, ensuring that everyone she loved felt remembered and cherished.

She will be deeply missed by her stepdaughters, Lynn Maidment and Ann Lariviere; her sons-in-law, Wesley and Steve; her grandchildren, Jennifer, Craig, Darren, Neil, and Breann; and her great-grandchildren, Samantha, Noah, and Maeve.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Park Lane Terrace for the exceptional and compassionate care Irene received. The care provided to her was truly stellar and meant more than words can express.

Irene is now at peace. She will be lovingly remembered and forever missed.

Poem: “Sketches – Volume of Love” by Ben Burrows

Deep inside my heart are volumes

On the reasons I love you,

Pages lined with tenderness,

Each word sweet and true.

One book is about your charms,

Your heavenly form and face,

That do so much to fill my life

With wonderment and grace.

Another tells of how your kiss

Is like a magic wand,

That sends me to enchanted veils

Out in the great beyond.

There is one devoted to

Your faith and understanding,

Where you give me strength

To do the things perplexing and demanding.

But though the bookshelves of my heart

Hold volumes such as this,

When you are close beside me,

Expression goes amiss.