Marina Ann Ireland

Beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend, Marina passed away peacefully at the age of 91 in her longtime home in North Vancouver. She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Sid Ireland, and sisters Betty, Arlie and Shirley. Marina is survived by her children David (Cathy), Dennis (Marg), Brent (Julie) and Pam (Gordon); grandchildren Rhianne (Travis), Tayler, Carsen, Joshua, Tianna (Chad), Kiarra, Joelle (Nigel), Christopher and Jack; many great grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousin.

Marina’s love for her children, family and friends shined through her kind and gentle personality and her generosity towards others. She had a way of making people feel accepted and valued and she enriched the lives of all who knew her.

Marina was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan to parents John and Gertrude Steele. She had three sisters and spoke of her childhood as being happy and carefree. In 1955, Marina married Sid in Saskatoon, and after living in a number of cities across Canada they made their permanent home in North Vancouver in 1975.

Starting her career as a bank teller at the CIBC in Saskatoon, Marina later worked for Northwestern Utilities and Gas in Edmonton, advancing to the position of Executive Secretary and then for Northern and Central Gas in Toronto. Once in Vancouver, Marina worked briefly for Seaspan Marine and then for Pacific Northern Gas for 25 years as the Executive Secretary to the president until she retired in 2001.

She and Sid enjoyed entertaining and hosted many family dinners, BBQs and bridge nights. They both loved to travel and had memorable trips to Hawaii, China and Trinidad and went on a number of cruises. As well, Marina and her sisters made frequent trips to Palm Springs to spend time with their mom.

Marina loved going for walks with family, friends and her dog Molly, and spent many happy afternoons in her backyard relaxing and swimming in the pool. She was an avid reader, an excellent baker and loved to try new recipes.

Marina grew up in the Anglican Church and it was always a big part of her life. Marina spent many years singing in the church choir, participating in bible studies and in the ACW where she made close friendships and helped with garage sales, Holly Teas and making chocolates.

The family would like to thank the North Shore Home Care team for their compassion and dedication.

Marina’s funeral will be held on March 7 at 1:00 pm, at the Hillside Church, 870 Lynn Valley Road in North Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Lionsgate Hospital Foundation North Shore Home and Community Team or the Canadian Cancer Society.