Obituary of Irene Schwark

Irene Schwark was born to Gottlieb and Maria Schwark on August 11, 1926, in Morris, Manitoba, the 5th of 7 children. During her growing-up years, Irene attended school through grade 10, where she excelled in sports,-especially softball. She attended the Morris Evangelical Church where her family worshipped. She made many friends, some of who have continued their friendships over the years. Due to financial needs of the family, Irene began working at a local clothing store where she worked for 2 years, followed by 41 years at the Bank of Montreal. While working, she also helped her dad maintain the Morris Cemetery, doing a variety of jobs, and cared for her parents until their passing. She traveled extensively, and was actively involved in local town activities, including the Morris Stampede for many years. Irene was fortunate to visit 36 different countries, giving her opportunities to enjoy other cultures and visit several missionaries who were personal friends and who she supported through her prayers and giving. She loved spending time with her family, taking many extended trips together. She took the time to know each of her nieces and nephews and was the favorite aunt to all. Her enjoyment for life spilled over to anyone who knew her. Irene’s love for Jesus was her most important relationship of all. Accepting Jesus as Lord of her life gave direction to Irene’s goals and decisions. Her generous support to the local church over the years was appreciated, and Irene’s daily life reflected her love of her Lord. She lived with the assurance of Heaven, and faced death with peace and confidence. Irene was predeceased by her parents, Gottlieb and Maria, infant sister, Marlene, 4 sisters: Edith Mitchell of Brandon, Lena Stevenson of Winnipeg, Greta Lohr of Vernon, BC, and Evelyn Taetz of Vancouver, BC, as well as her brothers-in law, one niece, Joey, and one nephew, Bill, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. She leaves to mourn her brother Hartley of Winnipeg, who she affectionately referred to as the “best brother ever”, 14 nieces and nephews, some cousins and a host of friends. She was loved by everyone who knew her. Irene passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Her new home is in heaven, where she awaits all those who believe. A sincere thanks and gratitude is extended to all staff members at the Lodge for the love and compassion extended to Irene while under their care. A sincere thank you, as well, to all medical professionals who cared for Irene during various times of admittance to hospital at Morris, and elsewhere in the province, during her life span. A graveside service of interment will be held Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at 2:00pm at the Morris Cemetery, in Morris Manitoba. A memorial service will be held at a later date. A video of the interment service will posted March 25th below this announcement.