Irwin – Albert Mark Irwin of Patricia, passed away in the Brooks Health Center on Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at the age of 81 years. Albert was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Blanche Irwin, a brother Bobby, an infant sister Beatrice and three sons, Bobby, Mark and Allan. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Julia, two sons John (Kathy) and Todd (Vanessa Friesen) all of Patricia and his grandchildren Krista and Mark of Patricia, Robert (Sheena White) of Calgary, Billy of Brooks and Danielle of Cleland, Scotland and two sisters Vivian Deschamps of Patricia and Ann (Bill) Buteau of Calgary. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws. Albert was born on December 6, 1923 at Lemoges, Ontario. He lived his entire life in Patricia attending school at Princess and Haddington schools, Patricia. Albert married Julia Bone on October 19, 1951. Albert ranched his whole life in Patricia except for the time he served in the army overseas during the Second World War. Albert was well known as a man of character and a true cowboy. He loved the country way of life and had a special way with animals. He was a wonderful grandfather and always looked forward to visits from his grandchildren. Albert’s favorite pastime was getting together with his buddies and in his later years, his grandchildren, and playing Crazy Eights. He took special delight in handing out the 2’s. Albert will be remembered for the many practical jokes he played on his unsuspecting sisters and friends. The way Albert lived his life was an example to all of us and he will be dearly missed. Funeral services for the late Albert Irwin were held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 22 from the Brooks United Church. Rev. George Edmonds officiated. Honorary pallbearers were Sieg Wetteskind, Dick Edwards, Fred Conners, Alf Tobler, Bill Highet, Clint Henrickson, Rick Irwin, Norman Musgrove, Les Bailly and Guy Fukuda. Pallbearers were Brent Deschamps, Brad Deschamps, Robert Irwin, Billy Irwin, Gary Buteau and Gene Westwick. If friends wish, donations may be made to the Diabetes Association (Brooks and District) Box 187, Brooks T1R 1B3. Smith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Telephone 362-4636 or (866) 362 4652.
