MASTERSON, Irene Carolyn, nee Kubica; born August 22, 1937:

It is with great sadness but also deep gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Irene Masterson announces her peaceful passing, in her 87th year, at Orchard View by the Mississippi in Almonte, Ontario on April 23, 2024.

Irene was predeceased by her loving husband, Joseph (2003), cherished parents Helen and Urban, brother Vince, and sisters Mary and Helen. She is survived by her brother Urban and her three children: Kevin (Lisa), Joseph (Cory), and Lorraine (Shaun). Irene will be deeply missed by her grandchildren Thomas, Patrick, Liam and Kyla.

Irene was born and raised in Peterborough where she met her future husband, Joe. They were married on December 30, 1961, and soon after relocated to Brussels, Belgium where their two sons were born. Returning to Canada they soon settled in Peterborough, where their darling daughter Lorraine was born, and later moved to Ennismore. A woman of remarkable resilience and profound dedication and accountability, her life was emblematic of strength and sacrifice, with a healthy dose of love, humour, creativity and generosity. Irene's impact on her children was immeasurable. She learned early the value of hard work, the weight of responsibility and the joy of giving. The epitome of stability and strong support, Irene excelled in her chosen career as a Laboratory Technologist at hospitals in Peterborough and Lindsay, assuming management roles but more importantly earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues. A woman of strong faith, Irene taught her children to stand with integrity, to act with humility, and to embrace life's joys and sorrows with the same unflinching grace that she displayed.

Irene's home was modest, filled with the aroma of home made meals, her creative talents omnipresent in the beautiful clothing she designed, sewed and knitted. Alongside her many arts and crafts, handmade jewellery, books she cherished and the pets she loved was always a vast array of gifts she collected to give to her family. While she believed in the power of words, she spoke sparingly, choosing instead to live loudly through her actions. Her children's lives are testaments to her enduring influence. Irene leaves behind not just memories but also a legacy of perseverance and the quiet, unshakable belief in the goodness of life. Irene will continue to live on in the hearts of all those she touched with her many talents and gifts.

Despite the toll of Alzheimer's disease, Irene smiled bravely till the end. With her grace, humour, optimism and loving nature, Irene touched all who knew her. Heartfelt thanks to the devoted and compassionate staff at Orchard View by the Mississippi. Visitors will be received at DUFFUS FUNERAL HOME,  431 George St S, Peterborough, ON on Friday, May 10, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.  Funeral Mass on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Martin of Tours Parish in Ennismore, followed by  burial at St. Martin of Tours Cemetery.

In memory of Irene, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada. Online condolences may be made at www.duffusfuneralhome.com