Irene Mary Totten-MacKinnon – Truro, passed away peacefully
on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at the age of 104, just 25 days short of
celebrating her 105th birthday. Born in South Maitland, she was one of
thirteen children.
Leaving home as a teenager, her first job was keeping house
for a family in Five Islands. She pursued her love of cooking (and she
was a great cook!) by taking the position of cook in various logging
camps around Nova Scotia. One special logger caught her attention and
on April 15, 1939, she married Clyde Burton Totten of Debert. They
settled in Debert where they lived for approximately 40 years until
Clyde became ill and they decided to move to Truro.
Irene’s house was her pride and joy and was kept
spotless. They planted a huge garden each year (always weed free!) and
fed her friends and family amazing homemade meals. She also kept house
and looked after children for various neighbours in her community.
Quilting was her winter pastime and her meticulous quilts adorned many
a bed. Irene was an active member of both Debert United Church
women’s auxiliary and Debert Fire Brigade women’s
auxiliary. Playing bingo and 45s were favourite pastimes, especially
after she moved into Truro. She also loved to dance to old time music
and would be on her feet the whole evening at YMCA and the Legion
senior’s dances, and continued to dance as long as she was
able.
Irene was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Clyde; her
only child, Judy; her ‘adopted’ son, Gary Giles;
her second husband, Sterling MacKinnon, and her
siblings.
She is survived by her ‘adopted’ family,
Susanne Giles; Shannon Fougere (Rick and their son, Rhys); Jennifer
Giles (Matt and their daughters, Delia, Bria, and Rowyn), all of whom
loved her as their Nanny and Great Nanny.
Her last ten years of life were spent at Townsview Estates
and Wynn Park Villa where she received excellent and compassionate
care. The wonderful staff and other residents provided her the care
and recreation she needed to continue to be a strong, independent and
“feisty” woman to the end.
As per her wishes, a graveside service will be held 11 a.m.,
Friday August 19, 2022, at Debert Main Road Cemetery. In lieu of
flowers, donations in her name to Debert Fire Brigade or Wynn Park
Villa are welcomed.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall –
Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Private messages
of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Irene’s
obituary on-line and selecting “Send A Condolence” at:
www.mattatallvarnerfh.com
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Irene Mary Totten-MacKinnon 1917 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Truro, Province: Nova Scotia