It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Irene Olive Pearson on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the age of 91 years. Irene was born in Togo, SK on October 14, 1931 to Richard (Dick) and Anna Topham (nee Nyrerod). Irene was the only girl with four brothers to tease and protect her. Her father owned the General Store in Togo and it was here, she met Bert, a new CN Operator in town. They had common interests in dancing, curling, card playing and of course, an interest in others. Both had a knack for ‘striking up a conversation’. Irene married Bert Pearson in May of 1956, and the couple first resided in Kipling, Saskatchewan for one year, before moving to Swan River, MB. It was here in this small friendly town; they raised their two children, Grant in 1958 and Diane in 1962. Mom and Dad remained in Swan River for 43 years. She made many valuable friendships throughout that time. During those years, Irene consistently kept a spotless house, her husband in matching attire, and her hair and appearance top notch. (Apparently a trait she didn’t pass on to her children!) She was always up for an interesting conversation and learned much about her acquaintances and became loyal friends with many church ladies, curlers, and neighbours. (And Irene’s impeccable memory kept the details on each one of them.) In 2000, Mom and Dad moved to Red Deer into a new home and spent the rest of their days closer to their kids. She also lived at Victoria Park, Red Deer and the Royal Oak Manor, Lacombe. Her final year was spent at Villa Marie, Red Deer. Irene will be greatly missed; just as she missed Bert, who passed away in February of 2019. Rest in Peace, mom, and may those of us left behind aspire to keep up with your high standards of appearance, values and character. Irene will be lovingly remembered by her son, Grant Pearson of Edmonton, her daughter, Diane (Larry) Podolas, and her granddaughters, Leah and Katelyn Podolas, all of Blackfalds, AB. She will also be sadly missed by her sister-in-law, Kay Topham, and her brother-in-law and his wife, Dale (Gwen) Pearson. Irene was predeceased by her parents, and her brothers, Bill, Harvey, Hector and Victor Topham. At Irene’s request, no funeral will be held. A Graveside Service will be held later this fall for both Irene and Bert at Kelvington, Saskatchewan. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. If desired, Memorial Donations in Irene’s honor may be made to Gaetz Memorial United Church at 4758 Ross Street, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 1X2 or at www.gaetzmemorialunitedchurch.ca. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

• Date : 2023-07-24
• Location : (Red Deer) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com