Take comfort in your memories for they can never fade, pictures are in fact worth a thousand words. And realize that we are all just a vessel for our spirits. Our journey never really ends. It is with great love and sadness that we say goodbye to our Mum (how she always spelled it) who is now at rest and has gone to be with Dad. She was born on January 2, 1921 in Enfield, England to Ernest and Olive Bates. Iris will be lovingly remembered by her four children: Karen (Peter), Barry (Annette), Ian and Shannon (Phil). Grandma will be greatly missed by her seven grandchildren: Ernest (Dora), Todd, Victor, Shannon (James), Michelle (Brendon), Ken (Kisha) and Caitlin. Iris also leaves behind eighteen great grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, five step-grandchildren, four step-great grandchildren and three step great-grandchildren. Iris will also be missed by her two sisters: Jean of Epsom, England and Heather (Geoff) of Hobart, Tasmania as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Iris was predeceased by her husband Al, her sister Evelyn and grandson Michael.
Iris was the third of four girls and grew up in England. She enlisted in the army and served during WW II, operating the searchlights over London. This is where she met Al and they were married on February 5, 1944. After the war she came back to Canada with Al to the family farm in Tees, Alberta. In 1948 they moved to Drumheller to raise their family. Iris was a legal secretary for 23 years until she retired in 1986. Iris loved her walks and coffee with friends at Whifs, and enjoyed many winters in Arizona. We will all miss the feisty little lady that stood up for us, encouraged us, loved us and of course made the best cinnamon buns ever.
A Memorial Service will be held at Courtney-Winters Funeral Home on Thursday, December 30, 2010 at 1:00 p.m.
