Irene Martha Arrell

She was born February 5, 1927, to parents Minnie and Nels Wallner, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

Irene graduated from Swift Current Collegiate and went on to study nursing at Moose Jaw General Hospital. While studying and living in the nurse’s residence she made many lifelong friends. Irene graduated as a nurse in 1948 and worked many years, travelling across Canada, to Saskatoon, Ottawa, and Victoria. Irene retired as nurse from Victoria’s Royal Jubilee Hospital.

Irene had a youthful, adventurous spirit and enjoyed many interests. Travel was her great joy and she visited many foreign destinations with friends and family, particularly her dear friends Audrey, June, Olive and Irene’s god-daughter, Sandy. As well as travel, Irene was active in her church, took part in a hiking club, and made many fast friends in her stitching group and weekly exercise class. This group was known for their love of fun, particularly at Hallowe’en when they always put together a group costume. Irene also enjoyed concerts at the Victoria Symphony which she attended with her dear friend and neighbor, Anne. Irene’s great sense of humour and zest for life drew people to her.

Irene is survived by her sisters Ruth Logan and Donna Jones, as well as many nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. Irene always signed cards to the younger family members as R.G.A. Irene (Really Great Aunt Irene).

Irene was predeceased by her beloved husband Carl and her brother Tony.

A memorial will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM at First Memorial Funeral Services, 4725 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC. Pastor Rob Olsen of Victoria Alliance Church will officiate.

Interment will occur at a later date in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

Irene supported many charities through her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.