Irene Black, a resident of Grande Prairie, AB, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 2, 2022, at the age of 86 years. Born in Didsbury, AB, on June 12, 1935, Irene was the only child of Haken (Fred) and Elsie Aastrup. In May 1957, she graduated from the University of Alberta with a BSc in Pharmacy, embarking on a lifetime career in this field. She later met, and in 1960, married the love of her life, Jim Black, then an RCMP member. Irene fully embraced the RCMP life and the numerous moves this brought for her and the family. She made many friends and enhanced every community in which she lived.

Irene was incredibly supportive and was heavily involved in her sons' numerous sporting activities, be it as an official, a board member, or their number one fan. She became a second mother to many friends and teammates. Irene did volunteer work for Palliative Care after the compassionate treatment they afforded her husband, Jim, in the final months of his life. She chose two extraordinary girls as granddaughters, becoming Grandmother to Michelle Lynne (Schamehorn) and Lynnelle Sabo (Schamehorn). "Momma," as she was fondly called, loved the girls dearly, and these bonds greatly enriched her life.

Irene loved to travel and saw a great deal of the world. Her trip to Denmark to meet her cousin Kamma Varming and other relatives on her father's side was a cherished memory for her. She was an excellent cook, commonly feeding her son's friends, who were often "surprise" guests for dinner. However, her main passion was the pharmacy, and she continued her work in this field well into her seventies. Irene enjoyed the responsibility of caring for people and the social interaction that her career provided.

Irene is survived by her sons Glenn, and Lee (Corie); as well as her chosen grandchildren Michelle Lynne and Lynnelle Sabo (Michael).

Irene was predeceased by her parents Haken (Fred) and Elsie Aastrup; as well as her husband Jim Black.

She is loved and will be greatly missed by all. Irene will be fondly remembered for her easy-going disposition, genuine desire to help others, and beautiful smile.

Glenn and Lee would like to recognize the love and devotion shown to 'Momma' by the Schamehorn family over the years, and the care and friendship given by caregiver Muriel Graham, who became such an important part of Irene's life in the time that she was with her. Thanks also to Dr. James Pope, who gave Irene excellent medical care over the years.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Irene's memory can be made to Grande Prairie Palliative Care Society (#204, 10134 97 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 7X6).