Obituaries

Irene Bernice Ditch

August 21, 1932 - October 01, 2022

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Obituary For Irene Bernice Ditch

Irene Bernice Ditch (Nee Richards)

Irene Ditch, resident of Grande Prairie, AB, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at the age of 90 years, in the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital surrounded by family.

Irene was the epitome of the word home. She created beautiful spaces, filled with color and comfort and prepared meals that nourished far more than just one's body. This sense of home extended far beyond physical spaces. All her family and friends felt safe, relaxed, and seen in her presence. Whether it was quietly taking care of a problem for someone, whipping up a new outfit for her children while they slept, or listening carefully as we shared our hopes and dreams, Irene was an excellent mother and friend. Mom brought that excellence into every area of her life including a career with an insurance company, where she was lured back after retirement when her boss pleaded "I can't run the department without you."

There was nothing our mother could not do. Carpentry, decorating, home renovations, gardening, sewing, cooking, baking, you name it were areas of proficiency for her.

While Dad instilled the belief that we could do anything, it was Mom who showed us how.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children: Rod and children: Kirby (Todd) Aldred, Hayley (Cody) Woolsey, and Marina (Brandon) Sinden; Lorinne (Gerry) Balsdon and children: Chelsea (Cory) Smith, and Sean Balsdon (Brandy Steinke); Corinne Dalen (Peter Boutilier), Corinne’s Daughter Aleah Martin (Laszlo Pollak), Peter’s son’s Dustin, Mark, and Kyle; Michelle (Herb) Dalen and children: Michael (Lynsey) Dalen, Elizabeth Dalen (Chris Madeira), and Matthew Dalen (Holly Kroeker); Angela Ditch and son Zach (Taihler) Webber; step-daughter: Julie (Gary) Schau; son-in-law Ken Kostuk and children: Cassandra Kostuk (Lee Hurst), and Jonathan Kostuk; great-grandchildren: Anya, Mick, Leo, Oaklynn, Raffy, Seb, Gala, Merrick, Luka, Sophia, Maisie, Alexis, and Grayson; step-great-grandchildren: Hannah, Alexander, Gillian, and Cashton; siblings: Shirley (Darrel) Robock, Diane (Art) Jack, Don Richards, Gloria Potter, and Gord Richards; sister-in-law: Laferne (Wayne Rodacker), life-long best friend Doreen (Mert) Paul, as well as several nephews, nieces, and friends.

Irene was predeceased by her husband Dorman, daughter Valerie Ditch, daughter-in-law Debbie Ditch, parents Clarence and Annie Richards, parents-in-law: Stuart and Lola Ditch, siblings: Albert Richards and Ralph Richards; brothers-in-law: Howard Holfeld, Ken Potter, and Ray Innes; sisters-in-law: Jenny Richards, Edith Richards, Pat Richards, Faye Innes; and nephews: Wayne Robock and Ian Robock.

The family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the wonderful people who came to live with Mom and care for her in the past few years. Mom attracted the best team of support both at home and more recently at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital.

As per our mother’s wishes, a private intimate gathering of her family and close friends will take place at her home on Saturday, October 22, 2022. Private interment to follow on Sunday, October 23, 2022, at the Field Garden in the Grande Prairie Cemetery where she will be laid to rest with her husband.

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Condolences

  • October 16, 2022

    We are so sorry to hear of your family's loss. Your tribute to her is beautiful. She was such a wonderful caring lady, which is seen in her wonderful family. Hugs to you all.

  • October 13, 2022

    We are sad to hear about your Mom; your tribute to her is beautiful. Irene's wonderful qualities live on in all of you, it is so easy to see. Hugs to all, Bill & Cecilia Littleton

  • October 12, 2022

    Love & hugs to the family in this difficult time. Her influence and heart is sure to carry on and bring light to those lucky to have been part of her journey here,

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