Irene Victoria Keim

Irene Victoria Keim

1931 - 2024

Irene Victoria Keim passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on September 16, 2024 at age 91.

Irene was predeceased by her husband Terry in 2018. She is survived by her children Donna (Ron), Andrew (Elissa) and Brent, Grandchildren Ian, Matthew, Cameron, Laura and Warren, and Great Grandchildren Elizabeth and Tristan. She is also survived by her brother in law Jim (Gloria).

Irene was born in Eriksdale Manitoba to Trudy and Ted Sturgess and moved to Vernon, BC as a small girl. She completed her schooling in Vernon and began working as a dental assistant. In 1952 she married David Hall and they had daughter Donna. In 1961 She moved to Inuvik, NWT and worked with dentists travelling to many small arctic communities to deliver care.

In 1964 Irene married Terry Keim. Together, they embarked on a life living in communities in the NWT, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. In 1979 they were transferred to Yellowknife where Mom worked at Stanton Yellowknife Hospital as a surgical processor and later as Manager of CSR (medical device reprocessing) She completed certifications for her career there, scoring a final grade of 97% on her final course, something that she was rightfully very proud of.

In 1991 Irene and Terry moved to Emerald Park Saskatchewan for Dad’s final posting and they remained there after retirement. They enjoyed their home and garden in Emerald Park, filling freezers and cupboards with the bounty of their garden. They were active in the Amateur Radio community where Mom obtained her licence as VE5IVK, the German Wine Society and had a broad circle of good friends they enjoyed spending time with. Dad surprised Mom with a puppy for her 75th birthday. Diamond was Mom’s beloved (If a little bit spoiled) companion and brought her much joy. Mom loved music, singing around the house and occasionally dancing to accompany her songs. She had a great sense of humor and a zest for fun, like creating costumes and participating in family hijinks like dressing as pirates for a family houseboat vacation.

In 2015 Irene moved into William Albert House (WAH) due to Alzheimer’s and remained there until her passing. The family would like to thank the staff at WAH for their skillful and compassionate care for Mom (and all of us).during her time there.

A private memorial and internment will take place at a later date.

Donations in Irene’s name can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan.