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In Loving Memory of

Irene Alice Hemmerling (nee Goodall)

1920-2020

Obituary of Irene Alice Hemmerling (nee Goodall)

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our mother, Irene Alice Hemmerling (nee Goodall).  Born on November 17th, 1920, Irene passed peacefully at her home, Rapelje Lodge, in Welland Ontario just prior to her 100th birthday.

She was the loving wife of Jack Hemmerling, predeceased, for 51 years and the dedicated mother of Cheryl Bertram (husband John), both predeceased, Theone Parsons-Gutstein of Calgary, Alberta (husband Larry), Ray Hemmerling of Lanark, Ontario (wife Susan) and Barry Hemmerling of Brampton, Ontario (wife Deborah).  She was a very special Grandmother to Dawn Tomkins, Bryon Bertram, Christopher Parsons, Gregory Parsons, Scott Hemmerling and Geri-Lynn Thompson and a Great Grandmother to Valerie and Rachel Bertram, Meagan Harvey, Kristen Hicks, Kayley and Matthew Tomkins and Alice and Rose Parsons.  She also had six great, great grandchildren, Jack and Marley Harvey, Hayley and Logan Hicks and Kayden and Emma Tomkins. All will miss her.

Irene was born and raised in rural Saskatchewan, moving to Saskatoon in about 1940 where she attended business school.  Soon after graduating, she and Jack were married and began to raise their family.  The family lived in Saskatoon until 1961 at which time they moved to Port Colborne, Ontario.  Irene and Jack bought the Pine Motel in 1967 which Irene managed on a day-to-day basis for 7 years.  In 1975 they moved to Dwight Ontario where she and Jack owned and operated a small resort, Sloane’s Cottages, until 1984. A few years after Jack’s passing in 1993, Irene moved back to Port Colborne and took up residence at Portal Village.  She revived a number of old friendships and would spend many afternoons playing bridge with the girls or Euchre with other residents at the home.

Irene was raised in a small Saskatchewan farming community and at a very early age learned the value of hard work.  She was frugal and a very efficient manager of her household and businesses.   Family was a large part of her life but as the children moved on, her strengths and abilities really began to shine when managing the businesses.  She had tremendous interpersonal skills and managed people well.  Irene faced the realities of life, good or bad, with strength, courage and a smile.

Away from work, Jack and Irene loved to square dance and play cards.  They spent many winters together at their vacation home in Florida.  She made close friends wherever she was.

Irene was prominent in both the Mayfair United Church choir in Saskatoon and the Central United Church choir in Port Colborne.  Irene was dedicated to her husband and children and will be sorely missed by all of her family and the many friends and acquaintances she made during her long and special life.  She will be remembered best for her positive attitude and her smile.

The family would like to thank the staff of Rapelje Lodge and Irene’s care companion, Mary Anne, for their compassion and care during Irene’s last years. For this the family will be forever grateful. As per Irene’s wishes, cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations to Rapelje Lodge or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be shared on Irene’s tribute page at EssentialsNiagara.com

Service Information

There are no upcoming public services scheduled or the service has occurred in the past.

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Norinne and Rick Lagiewka
3 years ago

We have so many fond memories of both your Mom and Dad.
When we moved to Whitby they treated us like we were their children and Jacquelyn another of their grandchildren. We were and still are so glad to be part of your family. Your Mom was always cooking for all and dispensing advice. Your Mom was very proud of her pastry skills and we all reaped the benefits of her skills.
We so enjoyed the time we spent at their cottages, then when they moved to the Lake Simcoe area and had more time to come visit us was even better..
They were great friends of my Mom and Dad and we all enjoyed the stories shared when they got together either in Ontario or in Winnipeg.
Your Mom was a very independent and capable lady, and though she missed your Dad terribly she managed on her own as much as possible and did not want anyone feeling sorry for her.
She was so very proud of all her children and grandchildren – and with good reason!
Our thoughts are with you as you mourn her loss and celebrate her life.
Much Love to all of you,
Rick, Norinne and Jacquelyn Lagiewka

Linda& Sandy Storoni
3 years ago

Dear Theone & Larry….I am sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing …she sounds like a wonderful woman, strong and capable. Sandy & I are thinking of you at this sad time. Hugs..

Marilyn Daniels
3 years ago

Dear Theone and Larry, I just read the paper this morning and was sad to see the announcement of the passing of your mom. She sounds like a phenomenal woman who will be dearly missed. My deepest sympathy to you and your families.

Dawn Tomkins
3 years ago

My Grandma loved Thanksgiving and any other holiday that got her family together. She made the BEST Turkey Dinner and Pies!!! Happy Thanksgiving to all her family and friends. She will always be very missed

Loretta Pallot
3 years ago

Such a great lady and special aunt. We always looked forward to her letters at Christmastime. With sympathy to all the family.
Our love and prayers, Bill and Loretta

mary anne mary huebsch
3 years ago

I will miss my friend. It has been my pleasure and honour to have known Irene. She has shared her stories and humour to all who have been near her. She will sing in the choir again, for sure. xo

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Rapelje Lodge

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