September 24, 1925 - April 4, 2019
Irene passed away peacefully in Collingwood on April 4th. She was in her 94th year and enjoyed an amazing adventure through life. Irene was born in Collingwood, lived her life in Collingwood and died in Collingwood. She had deep roots within the town and was involved in so many ways within the town.
Irene graduated from the University of Toronto and it was here where she met her future husband Bill Carswell. They built a life and family together. Bill Carswell predeceased Irene in 2006.
After graduating, Irene started teaching in Oakville but soon moved back to Collingwood where she spent a career teaching at Collingwood Collegiate Institute. She had a positive impact on many students that is remembered and appreciated to this day.
Irene had two children. Anne (Chris) from England and John (Nathalie) from Collingwood. She was fortunate to have four granddaughters. Jennifer and Hannah from England and Alexandra and Lindsey from Collingwood. Irene was extremely proud of her four granddaughters and always encouraged them on whatever they were doing. She even had one great grandchild Austin. A family cottage in Southampton, Ontario was a family gathering place every summer where all generations enjoyed many memorable summers and for an opportunity for the granddaughters to understand their Canadian and family heritage.
Irene has a surviving sister Helen Hayman from London, Ontario. Irene remained very close to her sister Helen and they enjoyed many trips and family get togethers through their entire life. A very special sister indeed.
Irene had many friends and everyone characterizes Irene as a true lady, smart, fun and a great person to be around. In many ways she was ahead of her time. She will be missed and remembered by many.
The last few years were not perfect but she always greeted everyone with a smile and a laugh. The staff at Bay Haven Nursing home must be recognized for their truly remarkable and outstanding care. A celebration of her life will be held at Trinity United Church at 1 p.m. on Thursday August 1, 2019. If so wished, a donation to the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital Foundation (cgmh.on.ca) would be appropriate.