Irene Eunice Ray (Meldrum) was born February 22, 1928 and passed away peacefully on November 1, 2004.
Irene was the youngest child born to Thomas Meldrum and Emiline Long Johnny of Meldrum Creek.
As an adult Irene became quite well known for the western shirts that she sewed on her old Singer sewing machine.
Her western shirts went to England; France; Switzerland and in Europe; as people would see a person wearing one of her shirts and go up and inquire where they got it.
The wearer would then point out Irene. After approaching her to inquire about her shirts, they would give her their measurements and Irene would go home and in just over three hours come back with the newly sewed shirt!
Irene also loved her flowers, and to bake as well as to can. She was always busy at something. As well she would take her flowers and baking to the fall fair and walk away with prizes and ribbons.
Cooking in logging camps; in cafes and for various lumber camps also took up her time.
Irene’s granddaughters remember Irene as a strong loving person who never turned anyone away who needed help.
Paddy Cake and Poo Bear were nicknames that she had for them while making Huckleberry jelly, or canning salmon.
Having a strong personality Irene demanded respect and she got it.
Although Irene was sometimes hard to get along with, but when one did finally get along with her, she was found to be a gentle soul who was always giving.
Irene was predeceased by her parents Thomas and Emiline Long Johnny; brother's Fred Johnny; Irvine Meldrum; Arthur Meldrum; John Meldrum and Albert Baptiste Meldrum; and her sister Ellen; grandson Daniel Paul Trembly.
Irene also lost her husband Dwayne Ray.
She is survived by older sister Mary McLeod (Meldrum); Reynold Douglas (Sonny) Bowe; Betty Bowe (Chicky); numerous in-laws, nephews, nieces and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Irene’s ashes will be scattered in Fraser Lake beside those of her late husband Dwayne; according to her wishes.