It is with heavy hearts that the family of Denise L. Irwin (Fontaine) of Sidney B.C. announce her passing on Friday October 22, 2021.
Denise is loved and missed by her husband Gordon Irwin of 54 years, daughters Christine Irwin and husband Dwight Muhlbeier, daughter Jody Dahlen and grandsons Austin and Caleb Dahlen, sister Linda Fontaine and nephew Stephan Hinton (Kendra Ojanpera) and family, nephew Christopher Hinton, sister Cathy Fontaine (Wayne Lamareaux), nephew Jeremy Leahy (Danielle) and family, and niece Lynsee Leahy as well as extended family and friends.
Denise was born in Kimberley B.C. to parents Roland and Jeanette Fontaine. She was the oldest of three daughters and grew up in a home surrounded by a large extended family who were always important to her.
Denise met Gordon while in high school though she studied nursing in Victoria before they married November 18, 1967. Gordon and Denise moved across Canada as a young couple eventually settling in Saskatchewan for a time, before moving back home to B.C.
Denise enjoyed friends and family gatherings where there was often laughter and cards, golfing with the ladies (Hazel, Judy, Pam and Joan), sewing, crafting, cheering on Gordon when he curled or golfed in tournaments, travelling, her time with the ‘Red Hats’ and using her green thumb in gardening and with plants. Denise had a quick smile and teasing word across the ages and stages of life. She made a positive impact in life and touched many people.
Dear Gordie, Christine, Jody and families,
Vic and I are so sad to read about your loss of Denise. We have so many fond memories of Denise from our time at Norcanair and later at our shop. Denise was always a Momma Bear/ Big Sister when we were first married and for many years after. We valued her advise and friendship always. We all had so many great times together. Her smile would light up the room. She will forever be on your Cheer Team. We are thinking of you all at this very sad and difficult time. Sending much love your way.
Sue and Vic Boryski
Saskatoon.Sk.
I’m so sorry to hear this news. Denise was such a positive and fun person. We shared many laughs at the curling rink, both on and off ice.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Hi Gord, so sorry to hear of Denise’ passing. She was a great curling fan but was clearly biased toward your team!
Always enjoyed chats with her behind the glass at Glen Meadows.
Dear Gord,
I am sorry to read in the paper today that you lost Denise in October Gord. My heartfelt condolences to you and the family. Denise was always there, behind the glass at Glen Meadows to cheer for you and your team whenever you were curling. I always admired you both for the bond you had, she supported you and obviously she got the same in return. Gail and I feel for you Gord, bless you and take care. May Denise rest in peace.
Dan Eakins
So sorry to hear this sad news. I had great times curling with Denise and “water walking” at Panorama beforeCovid hit. She had a great sense of humour and she will be missed. 😢
Dear Gord,
My wife Sue and I want to send you and your family our most sincere condolences. Although we hadn’t spent much time with her, both of us hold memories of her cheering you and your curling team on, especially at bonspiels. Sue looked forward to talking with her while watching the games. Denise always had a smile and pleasant thing to say. Take care and look after yourself. I hope to see you at curling again when COVID settles down a little bit more.
Dear Gord and family:
We are reminded how friendships affect us and Denise was such an avid supporter not only of your curling days, Gord, but was an important member of the Ladies’ division. Her upbeat humour inspired many of us to excel in our “sweeping”. Please look after yourself and keep well. Your wife made an impact.
My sincere condolences to you Gordie, Christine and Jody and your families. I cherish the memories I have of the many heart to heart talks I had with Denise and the countless games of Kaiser Allan and I shared with you and Denise. Denise was a beautiful person inside and out. With deepest sympathy Sela Balzer