July 20, 1930 – March 25, 2019
at the age of 88 years
Irene passed away peacefully at Piccadilly Care Centre, Salmon Arm, B.C. on March 25, 2019 at the age of 88. She was predeceased by her beloved John, husband and constant companion, in February of 2015. Irene was born in Glasgow, Scotland on July 20, 1930. She graduated from the University of Glasgow and began her teaching career. Irene met John and they were married in 1952. They resided in Kirkintilloch, Scotland until 1968, when they immigrated to Canada and settled in Edson, Alberta. Irene was employed as a teacher during their time in Edson. Irene and John moved to Salmon Arm in 1979 and Irene continued her career as a teacher. She and John both loved to travel and enjoyed visiting and experiencing the cultures of many countries. Irene was known for her teaching skills, her ability to speak many languages, her love of music and the arts, the CBC and for her love of all animals. She was the winner of the 13th Annual Salmon Arm Sonnet Contest with her poem entitled “Shuswap Seasons”.
SHUSWAP SEASONS
Shuswap, sweet land of shining lake and sun,
Where trees in spring hold blossoms to the sky,
Where melting waters, rippling, lakeward run,
And flights of geese o’erhead lift spirits high.
Then, by the lake, the redwing calls resound,
And sun-warmed people go their summer ways.
on orchard branches, rip’ning fruits abound,
And pink-mauve sunsets end the golden days.
In autumn, willows weep for summer’s close.
The gentle days wind down, leaves flame and fall.
The Lake of Shimmering Waters finds repose,
And wintry trees rise from their snow pall.
But nature’s cycle turns, this dear green place
Will wake anew beneath spring’s smiling face.
John and Irene had the following words they wished to share: “We have loved each other since the day we met and have had very many good friends and travelled to many interesting places. We also love the same music, especially classical. All in all, we’ve had a wonderful life and would like to thank all our dear friends for helping us on our way.” John & Irene Rodger.
Special thanks to the staff at Piccadilly Care Centre for their outstanding kind and compassionate care of both Irene and John and for enabling them to reside together until John’s passing. At Irene’s request, no service will be held. If desired, memorial donations, may be made in Irene’s memory to the Shuswap Hospital Foundation, Box 265, Salmon Arm, BC, V1E 4N3, or to the local branch of the SPCA.
I have known this charming and intelligent lady for many years. She was a participant in my past home art and craft shows. It was a tradition for us to visit with John and Irene during the Christmas season. We treasured our friendship and admired the devotion and love they had for each other, especially during the years of their declining health.