IRIS McQUAKER

Iris Corinne McQuaker passed away Thursday, March 31 2011 at her residence at the Rainy River Health Centre in Rainy River, Ont.
She was born April 27, 1925 in Stratton, Ont. to Harold and Elizabeth Pearson.
Iris was educated in Stratton, Emo, and Fort Frances, graduating from Grade 13 in 1941. She apprenticed at Dunwoody and Company in Fort Frances.
In 1943, she was hired to teach at Pattullo #8. It was there in Pattullo that she met Carson McQuaker and they were married on Dec. 29, 1944.
Iris continued to teach in area schools, as well as farm with Carson on the McQuaker homestead where they raised their family.
In 1967-68, Iris returned to school in Thunder Bay, Ont. to complete her formal teacher’s certification. Upon graduation, she accepted a position in Rainy River and retired in 1980 from Riverview Elementary.
During her retirement, Iris enjoyed various aspects of farm life and her many hobbies. She was a life-long learner, and instilled the value of having a strong work ethic coupled with a sense of humour.
Iris was a member of the Stratton United Church, a choir leader, a Sunday School teacher, and a church board member. She also served as councillor for the Corporation of the Township of Morley for many years.
She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to all.
Iris is survived by her husband, Carson; and children, Dixie (Wayne Watson), Norman (Jinx Stus), Harold (Shirley), Jim (Susan), Beth (Dennis Brown), Robin (Joanne), Pete (Marlene), Susan (Harold Norlund), and Bud (Donna).
She has 22 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
Also surviving is her only sister, Dixie Pidlubny; brother-in-law, Ron McQuaker; and her sister-in-law, Donna Pearson. She also will be missed by many nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbours.
Iris was predeceased by her parents; Carson’s parents, William and Annie; and her brothers, Cecil and Ron. She lost two sons, Laurie and David; one granddaughter; Kari; one great-granddaughter, Miami; and one great-great-grandson, Kellen.
Funeral services were held Monday, April 4, 2011 at 1 p.m at the Stratton Millennium Hall in Stratton, with Rev. Peggy Mason officiating.
Interment will follow at the Pattullo Cemetery.
The pallbearers will be Iris’s six sons.
If so desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the Stratton United Church, the Rainy River Health Centre, or charity of your choice c/o Northridge Funeral Home, Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com