Obituary
Irene Bailer (nee McMahon)
On December 14, 2022 Irene passed away peacefully. She was born to Fred and Gina McMahon in 1931; Irene was raised on a farm in the Pleasington area. She was married to Gordon Bailer in 1952, they had a strong and devoted marriage of over 70 years.
She was a dedicated farm wife whose many contributions included bringing hot meals out to the field, milking cows, or driving the grain truck during harvest. She worked hard tending her large vegetable garden, canning and freezing. Chauffeuring kids to various activities and sporting events, she was our biggest fan. She did several types of handicrafts, including cross-stitched samplers for each of the grandchildren when they were born. She liked the challenges of mending and fixing things, especially if it was any of the grandchildren’s clothes.
After she and Gordon sold the farm in 1991 and moved to Camrose, she liked to visit the Pleasington area. Irene earned an award for volunteering at the Camrose Seniors Centre. She had tremendous empathy for others and, throughout her life, she persevered through any challenges she faced. We jokingly referred to her as “one tough old bird”.
Her family played a huge role in her life. As the youngest of the 13 McMahon children, Irene had no shortage of siblings and they enjoyed lots of family social gatherings as there were many McMahons and relations nearby. Irene loved to play cards, especially Crib at which she frequently skunked her opponents.
Irene is survived by their children Larry (Carol), Marilyn, Dwayne (Laurie), Bonnie (Allan) and Joanne as well as six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She predeceased by her husband Gordon in November and by one grandson Adam. Irene will be greatly missed by all for her good nature, her infectious laughter, the value she placed on the family, and her strong will to keep going.
Thank you to the staff at Seasons in Camrose for their compassionate care over the past few years.
At this time no funeral service will be held. Cremation has taken place. Memorial donations on her behalf may be made to the Pleasington Historical Society (care of J. Bailer, 4611-61St., Camrose, AB T4V 2H8), or to the Alzheimer Society, or the charity of one’s choice.
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We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Irene McMahon Bailer 2022 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
Death notice for the town of: CAMROSE, Province: Alberta