In Loving Memory of
Irene Vojtek (nee Wilson)
1951 ~ 2024
Obituary of Irene Vojtek (nee Wilson)
Irene Vojtek, (nee Wilson), a compassionate soul with an infectious laugh and a heart of gold, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 12, 2024 at the NHS-Port Colborne Site, a day after turning 73.Born in Buckie, Scotland to Robert (Scotty) and Mary (May) Wilson, Irene immigrated to Canada with her parents and brother, Alan Wilson (Nancy), in 1954. They settled in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and their younger brother, Stewart (Aileen), was born in 1959.
Irene embarked on a life filled with love, laughter, and dedicated service. Her nursing career, which spanned over five decades, was a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for helping those in need. From her early days as a Registered Nursing Assistant working at esteemed institutions such as York Central Hospital, Mariann Home, Shaver Hospital, and Para Med, Irene touched countless lives with her kindness and expertise. In her 50s, Irene graduated from McMaster University as a Registered Nurse. She was proud of this achievement and of obtaining the highest mark in an exam
ever recorded there.
Irene's love for people extended far beyond the walls of the hospital. She cherished every moment spent with family and friends, relishing in lively conversations and her joy of cooking.
In 1971, Irene married Paul Vojtek, and while living in London, Ontario, together they had two beautiful daughters, Erin Murray (Dan) and Stacey Frizzell (Brian). Through Irene’s relationship with Trevor Blewett, she became a second mother to Alex Byers, née Blewett (Erik). Alex remained a devoted daughter to Irene throughout her life.
As "Grammy” to Kristen, Ellyotte, Dighlan, Bryce, and "Mimi" to Emma and Julia, Irene found immeasurable joy in the presence of her granddaughters. She was an integral part of their lives, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever. Irene's legacy of love and laughter lives on through her nieces Casie and Emily, nephews Robert, Graeme and Morgan, extended family in Canada and Scotland, and all those fortunate enough to have crossed her path. She recently became a great aunt with the births of Piper and Paloma.
Irene's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Port Colborne Hospital and all the nurses, doctors and personal support workers who provided compassionate care for her at home.
In accordance with Irene's wishes, cremation has taken place, and no service will be held. If desired, donations in her memory can be made to Community Crew in Niagara.
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To Erin , Stacey Alex and Family,
Mark and I are so sorry for your loss .
Irene was a beautiful soul inside and out. She was amazing to work with , her kindness and compassion towards her patients was truly inspiring.
She had ability to light up a room with her love of life and her laughter.
We have many fond memories we will hold close to our hearts.
She was so proud of you all , her family was her world.
Thinking about you in these difficult times!!
May God Bless you and give you strength!!
My sincere condolences to the family of Irene, she was a dedicated nurse and was well liked by everyone.
Rest in Peace Irene, you were an inspiration to us all
It is with the deepest regret and sympathy to learn of Irene’s passing! I had the pleasure of working with her as a colleague and she always brought sunshine into all our lives.
My husband Dans crew, painted her large house on Glendale Avenue and we’ll never forget how she would go out and spray their backs with sunscreen. She had a heart of gold! My condolences to her family and friends who will always treasure her memories forever. Love Sue&Dan Plouffe
My deepest sympathy I enjoyed working with Irene and we often talked about how we both came from Richmond hill area she was a beautiful person
To Irene’s family.. there are no words when you lose someone you love. Just know that along with myself who worked with Irene over many years at the Shaver Hospital.. that Irene spread joy caring and laughter to all of us who worked along side her and the patients she cared for. May you all find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
I am so sorry to learn of Irene’s passing. The last time I saw her was when she came to visit in 2019. A number of the nursing staff from the Shaver Hospital were there for lunch. Faye was visiting from Edmonton. Irene was such an inspiration and so much fun to work with. She and Trevor threw the best parties I have ever attended back in the 90’s!! We also worked together caring for Carl (brain injury patient). Irene helped me get that job. She brought so much joy to others whenever she was around. I know that losing Irene is a huge loss for the family. She was an incredible nurse and an amazing mother and friend. Sending love to the family.
Irene and l shared a special bond from the moment we met with heart, hugs, laughter, joy, happiness and food!
Irene, May and Tracy were fortunate to share and experience the awesomeness of “GrandMother- Hood” ❤ together.
Good job girls!
We thank you Irene, Chi miigetch for your service, dedication, devotion, compassion to all you have touched.
Not many have the heart to do what you accomplished in this world.
You comforted the dying and infirm on their spirit journey, now you are on yours, may the source comfort and guide you ontoward your journey to the Ancestors who await you.
Irene, you walked the path of the Seven Grandfathers with grace and dignity.
Respect, Courage, Love, Honesty, Wisdom and Truth.
You have earned your Eagle Feather!
We will come together to celebrate you with a 🔥 love ,laughter and food!
Giga maabamin minawaa,
Til we meet again.
Wes $ Tracy Saikkonen
Perhaps they are not
stars in the sky,
but rather openings
where our loved ones
shine down
to let us know
they are happy!
Our deepest condolences at this time. Our thoughts are with you.
Evelyn Perras & Tom Carr.
Those we love don’t go away.
They walk beside us everyday.
Unseen, unheard, but always near.
Still Loved, Still Missed, and
Always Dear. RIP❤️
To a wonderful person Irene who donated her life to helping and caring for others . Your infectious laugh and smile brought so many happy moments . Miss you , ❤️ RIP my friend .
My deepest condolences to Irene’s family.
Nothing I can say will take away the pain you’re experiencing. Just want you to know that I care about you, and I share in your sadness.”
Sending healing prayers and comfort during this tough time
I am so sad to hear of Irene’s passing. I’ll always remember how wise, kind, nurturing and full of laughter she was. Our deepest sympathies are with you all and we hope you are able to find some peace and comfort in the happy memories you share of her.
It was a joy for me to meet Irene again after many years at Morgan and Rachel’s wedding. It was like I’d seen her recently, with easy conversation and laughter shining so brightly through n her eyes. It was clear that she was happy to be with her family. A gift to all!
The sorrow of loss is surprising and breathtaking. To Stew and Irene’s extended family and friends falling into this well of grief, may you find strength in the depths of your love for her and the love she felt for you. Sending love,, Deb