Obituary of Irene Cuthbert

October 14, 1939 – New Waterford, Nova Scotia

September 17, 2024 – Diamond Valley, Alberta

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Irene Cuthbert, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend. She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, in Diamond Valley, AB, at the age of 84 years.

Born on October 14, 1939, in New Waterford, NS, Irene was a remarkable woman whose love, kindness, and quiet strength touched everyone she met. She dedicated her life to her family and filled her home with love and care. Irene always taught that the true essence of home was not in material things, but in the love, resilience, and support that bound us together.

Irene married the love of her life, Fred Cuthbert, in 1960, and together they created a beautiful family of three daughters and one son. Even when times were difficult, Irene made sure that her family never felt they were lacking. She encouraged her children to take control of their own lives, to soar and stumble, while always being there to pick up the pieces when needed. Her greatest pride was as a mother, raising strong, independent children who carry forward her lessons of love and resilience.

A devout Catholic, Irene’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her unwavering belief in kindness and compassion shone through in everything she did. She supported countless causes, including sponsoring children from around the world with her husband, showing her heart extended far beyond her immediate family.

Irene’s talents and passions were vast. She was a gifted seamstress, sewing wedding dresses for her daughters, and many more creations over the years. Her home was often filled with the comforting scent of her baking, and her family cherished the many nights spent around the kitchen table playing cards, laughing, and building memories that would last forever. She was also an avid knitter, and each Christmas her grandchildren received hand-knitted sweaters, each one crafted with love and care.

Irene and her husband shared a bond that only grew stronger with time. They were true partners in every sense, inseparable in their devotion to one another. Together, they created a legacy of love that has left an indelible mark on their family.

Irene is survived by her three daughters, Susan of Vancouver, Carrie (Jason Shannon), of Calgary, and Colleen also of Calgary; and her son Tony Cuthbert, of Diamond Valley. She also leaves behind her beloved seven grandchildren, Dominic, Sarah, Nolan, Gavin, Tyler, Jeremy, and Kristin; and two great-grandchildren, Ash and Samuel. Irene is also survived by her brother Daniel O’Brien of Vancouver. She will be deeply missed by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was predeceased by her beloved sisters, Pat Smith and Rita O’Brien; her brother Greg O’Brien, and her parents, Earl and Catherine O’Brien.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Michael’s Catholic Church (402 Government Rd S, Diamond Valley, AB) on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Chalice, 101-26 Union St. Bedford, NS, B4A 2B5  Telephone: (800) 776-6855, www.chalice.ca.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Irene’s family here.

In living memory of Irene Cuthbert, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.