June 24, 1941 ~ October 8, 2023
After a very short battle with cancer, Iris passed away peacefully at home in Frankford, Ontario surrounded by her family. She has gone on to join Archie, her loving husband of over 50 years.
She was a very loving mother to Melody (Richard), Holly (Mark) and Kim (Scott), and a very proud grandma to Joshua (Emily), Jordan, Kyle, Gavin, Sharon (Jacob), Emily and Kate. She will be dearly missed by her sister, Marge (Elmer). Predeceased by her brother, Alvin.
The iris flower is often recognized as a symbol of love, trust and hope. Family was always a top priority for her, and Iris was always there to help however she could. She had a warm heart and kind eyes. Even in her final days, she continued to remain hopeful that everything was going to be alright.
Iris loved exploring new places, especially with family. She loved trying new foods and fancy drinks; famously known for always ordering the salmon and the most colourful drink on the menu.
On any day of the week during their long life together, you’d find Iris with Archie doing one of two things: Iris driving their convertible while Archie sipped on his Timmy’s coffee, or being out on the water, relaxing & reading a book, while taking in the scenery as Archie fished with the grandkids.
In memory of a beautiful wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend, we come together and remember the wonderful life that she had. We will miss you. Rest In Peace.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will take place at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in River Hills, Manitoba at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 23, 2023. A family interment will follow at the Whitemouth Cemetery for both Iris and Archie.
As an expression of sympathy, donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
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Cora-Lee
So blessed to have known this wonderful lady for my whole life. A lady I called “Mom”. So happy we had time together. ❤️❤️
Yettie Zandbergen
Dear family, We have known Iris now for over 25 years. She was always very kind and friendly as shown in her eyes and in her smile. We have had the privilege of being invited to her home and also enjoying beautiful boat rides with her and Archie. As I corresponded with her for the last time in the middle of September, she told me she had faith and she knew she was in good hands. Also she mentioned that she felt so blessed to have a loving family to take care of her. You will be missed Iris and we are confident that you are now safe in the arms of Jesus. Our deepest sympathy to all the family.
With love, Richard and Yettie /Opa and Oma
Giulianna D'Anna
Our deepest sympathy to Melody, Richard and the family. Heaven gained another angel. Love Giulianna, Sebastian and Sabrina.
Christine & Tim
Dear Melly, Rich & family of Iris.
Such a beautiful tribute.
So glad she had you with .
Sending you much love.
Silvana and Ilija Pasalic
Our heartfelt condolences to your entire family for your great loss. Sending loving thoughts and prayers. We are always here for you ❤️
Tara-Lee & Bryan Harvard
Sending you heartfelt condolences to your family! What a beautiful tribute to her incredible life and legacy. May you take great comfort in your many wonderful memories! Much Love Always ❤️
Brenda and Arnie Klymchuk
My mother Ella Klepatz, was a sister to Iris’ dad, Uncle Roy. A couple of times when Mom was away, cooking, etc. at my dad’s construction site, I stayed with Uncle Roy and Auntie Pauline at their farm. I was about 12 or 13. Iris was home from Winnipeg for the weekend and we headed into the barn to do the chores. Uncle Roy had one milking machine, and the sound coming from it created a “beat”. Iris and I decided it was perfect to jive to, so there in the barn, we had a dance party! Years later, at the Merke family reunion, I went to Iris when the music started and encouraged her to jive with me. At first she said “no, I haven’t jived in years”, but then she changed her mind and off we went as the band played. We jived up a storm and had the best time!
Even though we exchanged Christmas cards and the odd conversation on the computer, she remained very dear to me, and I am thankful and will cherish the memories we made together as cousins.
What a special blessing that Iris did not linger long with illness, and was able to be cared for by her loved ones! You meant everything to her!
I keep you all in my prayers, asking for grace and comfort for the coming days .
With Love,
Cousin Brenda
Marlene Grexton
Ron, Marlene, Charlene & Donny’s family’s , send our dearest condolences & prayers.
Knowing your mom & dad has been a privilege & a pleasure.
Although we haven’t seen them in a few years, memories have come up often. The kids speak about when memories of Wawa come in our conversations.
Your family has been a big part of our lives & won’t ever be forgotten. They will be sadly missed by all.
Hang on to all the beautiful memories that will help see you all through this difficult time.
All our love the Grexton family.
ken aitkenhead
I was shocked to read of your passing ; since I haven’t seen you in several years. Rest in peace Iris with my brother Archie at your side. Condolences to her family. From her brother – in – law Ken Aitkenhead
Judy Scott
As we lose more family members memories of growing up in Wawa with uncles, aunts & cousins & family trips to Whitemouth every summer to spend time with the rest of the family & celebrate weddings together become more treasured.
Your mom & dad having their xmas goose family meal early so Scotty & I could attend before going down the street for Scotts xmas turkey. Your mom offering to babysit the boys for a few years when they were small so they would still be with family when Barbie was no longer able to babysit.
Thankful for it all. Memories of the heart. Hugs to all you girls.
Love Judy – Toby – Tyler & Uncle Jack
Linda & Allen Gerrior
Sorry for your loss. Condolences to the family.
Connie Pommer
So sorry to hear of your loss I remember mom and dad(Louise and Gordon Pommer)speaking fondly of iris.