Obituary of Irene Mary Haessel

It is heavy hearts that we say good-bye to Irene Mary Haessel who passed away on March 21, 2023 at the age of 93 years.

Irene was born in the Hanna hospital on December 15, 1929, to John and Marie Steinbrecker. She was raised on a farm near Scapa and enjoyed the farm life, with all her pets and animals. Irene loved gardening and helping with chores around the farm while growing up.

Irene attended the Hudson Bay elementary school and later the Scapa School.

On October 29, 1950, Irene married Friedel Haessel in the Hanna United Church. They moved to a farm six miles east of Scapa near Garden Plains, where they farmed, raised cattle, and Friedel drove school bus for 19 years. They were blessed with three wonderful children, Larry (Gloria), Deb (Wayne) and Rick (Juliette), seven grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren.  In 1964 they moved into Hanna and continued farming plus Irene worked part time at a restaurant as well assisted with catering.

Irene loved cooking, baking and entertaining people over the years.  There were three vegetable gardens at the farm and one in town which she enjoyed for many hours.   Also, she constructed a large rock garden which she was very proud of, it can still be seen on their original home place.  Over the years she also enjoyed ball, curling, golfing, and playing cards with her friends and family.  

Irene was an active member in the Hanna Hospital Auxiliary, organized the baby bar in the hospital entrance and enjoyed singing with the Hanna United Church choir.  There was countless volunteer hours Irene dedicated to community events, plus donations to ensure their success.

On June 24, 2004, Irene married Frank Harvey. They enjoyed travelling and visiting with family and friends.   When Irene’s health declined, she was very happy to spend her last years with her loving husband Frank in the Hanna Long Term Care.

Irene was predeceased by husband Friedel in 2001 and husband Frank in 2021, her mother, father, two brothers (Sam & George) and one sister (Ruby Hausher).

A family memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend appreciation to Dr. Hanna and all the staff of the Hanna Continuing Care Center, for the special care and kindness shown to Irene and her family.

If desired donations in memory of Irene can be made to the Hanna Ladies Auxiliary, Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, or charity of your choice.

Hanna Funeral Services Ltd., had been entrusted with the care and arrangements,403-854-5956, www.hannafuneral.ca.