February 23, 2020
Irene May Freer (Irene or Reenie) passed away peacefully at the Grand Forks Hospital on February 23, 2020. Irene, 95 years old, was born in Burnaby to Dean and Ida (Ritz) Proctor of Vancouver. Irene was predeceased by Harold, her husband of 62 years and her daughter, Sueann, one brother and four sisters. Irene spent her childhood in Vancouver and Bear Flat in the Peace River near Hudson Hope where she accompanied an older sister who was a teacher at the Bear Flat school in the 1930's. Irene met her future husband, Harold Freer at Bear Flat.
Irene attended teacher college in Victoria and subsequently taught in several locations including Vancouver and Pender Harbour. Irene married Harold Freer on his return from 5 years overseas as a tank driver in World War II. They raised their family in Ocean Falls, Penticton and Beaverdell.
Son, Ross and Janis Freer of Grand Forks have 2 children, Jade and Shilo. Daughter Sueann of Edmonton had 4 children, Tim, Angela, Eryn and Aimee. Son, George and Joyce Freer of Kelowna have children Janya and Chris. Irene and Harold had many joyous visits with their children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great-grand-children.
Irene and Harold retired to Grand Forks in 1974. They are remembered fondly by many friends who they talked with on their walks "over town" and friends who they faithfully worshipped with. Irene was known for being up for "anything" as evidenced by her many adventures with Harold and family, super baking, helping others, and being a great friend and grandma to many. She will be remembered and missed by all those who knew her.
A special thanks to Janis Freer and Shirley Alendal for their friendship with Irene over the last 40 years. The Freer family wish to thank Irene's close friends, homecare staff, nurses, doctors, Hardy View Lodge staff and Boundary Hospital staff for their excellent care for Irene over the last 12 years.