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Wilma Ilene O’Connor (née Harnden), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, left us peacefully on January 29th, 2025, at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of love and friendship.
Ilene follows in passing her loving parents, Elden and Irene Harnden, and her treasured mother-in-law, Margaret (Peg) O’Connor.
Ilene was a devoted wife of the late Michael (Mickey) O’Connor, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter and so many cherished memories. From their world travels to many gatherings with family and friends, they shared a remarkable life together.
Ilene is survived by her three sons, Brent (Sharon, Ethan, Jenna, Abby), Tim (Jennifer, Jersie, Tréah, Jaice), and Dan (Erin, Ryan, Paddy, Evin). Our mother and grandmother’s passing will forever leave a space in our hearts, however, we know she will always be with us in spirit and in the fond memories we’ve shared.
Ilene was also a loving sister, the second oldest of four sisters, Sheila (Reg, Matthew), preceded by her sister Ruth (Tony, Shawn, Tracey, Erin, Toni), Darlene (Derek). Whether through her warm embrace, her generous spirit, her kind words, she made those around her feel loved. Her dear sisters were grateful for having had a sibling that was fun and loving and there for them whenever they needed her. Ilene shared a very close bond with her extended family, including her sister and brothers-in-law, Pat (Harold), Margo (Mac), Marnie (Norm), Theresa (David), Gail (Don), Denny (Gerry), Larry (Carol), and Doni, who were like siblings to her. And of course, she cherished her many nieces and nephews. One of Ilene’s most treasured traditions was the annual trip to Sauble Beach, the simple pleasure of time spent together while creating memories that will be cherished forever by all that joined her.
Ilene’s many dear friends have been an enormous part of her life, including trips away, game nights, dinner parties, backyard bbqs, chats across the yard, wine and hot tub evenings, there have been so many special memories and cherished friendships. You all know who you are. To you all, she was Lenie and Lenie Fay! As a family, we thank you all for being such a big part of our mother’s life and bringing her such joy over the years!
With her big, beautiful smile, our compassionate mother had an amazing life. She made all around her smile. Ilene leaves a legacy of service to others from her 30+ years of nursing at all of the Hamilton hospitals. Even in her last years, she was always trying to help those around her at her home at Ressam Gardens, recalling her years of nursing.
Our mother had a full life enjoying reading, cooking, baking, entertaining, swimming, even in the coldest of lakes, music, gardening, travel, shopping trips and dancing! It will be a lasting memory having watched our mom and dad enjoying the dance floor together over their decades long marriage.
The last several years of Ilene’s life were met with challenges, yet also a time marked by an overwhelming outpouring of love from her family and friends. As she faced mounting challenges between the loss of her husband and sister and battling dementia, her day-to-day became more and more difficult. Yet every time we were with her, she lit up the room with her special smile. As much as she could, her time spent with her grandchildren gave her such joy. Ilene’s passing has left a void to her many friends who dearly love her and her family that will miss her immensely. Ilene managed to maintain special relationships with all that knew her.
Our families would like to extend the deepest gratitude to the caregivers at Ressam Gardens and St. Peter’s Hospital for their compassionate care and support.
“No matter where you are Mom, I will always be your little boy standing on the kitchen chair next to you! You are so loved!” Give Pappa a hug and a kiss from us all.
To honour our mother’s wishes, there will be no service. We invite you to celebrate Ilene’s memory in your own special way. We know that she will be with us all in spirit. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Alzheimer Society www.alzheimer.ca
2025
Death notice for the town of: Dundas, Province: Ontario
death notice Wilma Ilene O’Connor 2025
obituaries notice Wilma Ilene O’Connor 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Wilma Ilene O’Connor 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
