SALKELD, Gladys Irene (Leach) - Passed away peacefully in her 96th year on October 29,2019.
Irene was born on December 11, 1923 in Watford Ontario. She was the youngest daughter of Robert and Ida Leach(nee McRorie). The Leach family had a long history in south western Ontario dating back to the early 19th century.
Irene was predeceased by her husband Ern and her sisters, Margaret, Anna and Alma.
She will be missed incredibly by her children, Kathy, Craig, Steve and Tim and their partners Eric, Sherry, Sharon and Kim. Grandma loved spending time with her grandchildren, Josh, Ben, Andrew, Alex, Arthur, Trevor and Jack. Sadly she did not get to know her great grandchildren Rory and Mika.
Irene married Ern Salkeld in September 1948. The year the Maple Leafs won a second consecutive Stanley Cup. Irene and Ern had a passion for travelling, exploring and tromping through the great outdoors. We will never forget those wonderful excursions to Florida before the benefit of I-75. Four days in a car with 4 children under 8. Thus began a lifelong interest in seeing new places and meeting new people.
Irene was happiest when outside walking on a path through the forest or admiring a crystal clear lake holding a fishing pole. While growing up in Watford she preferred mowing the lawn to cooking in
the kitchen. She had a flair for decorating and creating beautiful bouquets from things she found in the forest. Ern’s job took us to many places in Ontario and Irene made every one of our houses feel like home with her unique and thoughtful style.
Irene was a warm and caring person who rarely raised her voice. She was a registered nurse and her lifelong commitment to caring started when she was young. Growing up in the depression she recalled her mother leaving food on the back porch for those in need passing by because living on a farm they always had some extra.
She was the consummate polite Canadian thanking everyone for everything. The family appreciates very much the kindness provided to Irene by the Valleyview staff.
Love you forever Mom. We will miss you.
Irene’s preference was for a private family gathering to celebrate her life. There will be no funeral. Her ashes will be buried beside her husband Ern.
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