Our family matriarch, Irene Diana Blanchard, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2022 at Maison McCulloch Hospice, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Coniston, Ontario in 1931, Mom was of pioneer stock – her family’s roots in Ontario and Quebec date back to the 17th century. She is predeceased by her parents, Paul Ovila Lalonde, and Aldina (Levert) Lalonde, as well as by 11 brothers and sisters. Mom is survived by two beloved sisters, Flo Fournier and Gaetanne Lafleur, as well as by her friend and sister-in-law, Eleanor Lalonde. Mom had numerous nieces and nephews; her niece, Ann Matte, had a special place in her heart. Mom was predeceased by her good friend and travel companion, Armand Arseneault; she was so happy that his daughters, Monique and Aline, kept in close touch with her.
We will all miss our feisty and wonderful Mom (Grand-maman) very much: Daughters Debra Dupuis (Jeffrey) and Kathy Blanchard (Paul Camillo), and her son, Edward Blanchard. Mom was very proud of her five grandchildren: Jana (Tyler), Katy (Dean), Pam (Jordan), Jim, and Paul (Kristen). It’s possible that there’s another grandmother somewhere in Canada who has taken more photos of her grandchildren – but we seriously doubt it.
Mom graduated in 1952 from the St. Elizabeth School of Nursing, and worked as an operating room nurse, as well as in various hospital departments. Strong and resilient, she was an excellent role model for us. She did other things later in life – from helping to found a mining exploration business to getting involved in real estate – but her nursing profession was dear to her heart, and she faithfully attended alumnae dinners with the “girls” for decades.
Inspired by the lively Réveillons of her childhood, Mom loved to dance, and no one in the family could ever dispute that she was the Queen of Puzzles.
We thank Mom’s devoted PSWs, especially Joan and Annie, as well as all her Meadowbrook family. Nurses Julie and Lindsay helped guide the family through hospice-at-home, with empathy and skill. The warmth, competence, and spiritual support we found at Maison McCulloch Hospice told us that Mom had reached safe harbour, where she was able to leave us quietly, with dignity. To all those who brought light, comfort and care: Thank you for your prayers, the meals, the baking; for picking up supplies, helping Mom look her best, and for treating her with so much kindness. We are so grateful.
Mom did not wish to have visitation or a funeral service. Family and friends will gather later, to celebrate her life.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Lougheed Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful if donations in Irene Blanchard’s memory were made to Maison McCulloch Hospice.
For donations or messages of condolence, www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com
Goodnight, Irene – we’ll see you in our dreams.
Read Less
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Irene Diana Blanchard Lalonde Wednesday November 2nd 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Sudbury, Province: Ontario