Alice Kirwan

Alicia (Alice) Mary Kirwan, age 91, of Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, passed away Wednesday, October 14th, 2020 at the Gull Lake Special Care Home.   A private funeral service was held Monday, October 19th, 2020 at St Anne Roman Catholic Church, Gull Lake, with Father Anthony Phung Tran officiating.  The interment service was held at the Gull Lake Cemetery.

Alice is survived by Noreen (Brent) Cammer and family, Melissa (Robert) Pockar, Angelee (Shawn) Thierman;  Elaine (Allan) Collier and family, Trent, Brennan (Michelle), Derek (Kelsie);   Joyce (late Shane) Gedny and family, Taryn (Steve), Troy (Morgan);   Sharon (Danny) Stevenson and family, Brandon, Blayne (Landyce);  Gerry (Rhonda) Kirwan and family, Brady (Kristie Anne), Brenna (Mac); great grandchildren;  extended family members and many nieces and nephews.  Alice is predeceased by her husband, Jack; her parents, Edward and Alicia Dowling; and her brother, Patrick Dowling.

Alice was born on September 23rd 1929 in Cabri, Sask.  She completed her high school education in Hazlet, Sask.  She trained as a psychiatric nurse at the Saskatchewan Hospital in Weyburn. She was employed by the Col. Belcher Hospital in Calgary and later at the Gull Lake Hospital.  She attended the Saskatchewan Teachers' College in Moose Jaw in 1952/53 and taught in the Gull Lake area.  Later in life, she worked at the Gull Lake Special Care Home.

On July 19th 1954, Alice married Jack Kirwan in Gull Lake. They built their life together, raised their family, and were best friends for over 53 years.

When Alice was young, she would read stories and poetry with her mother, and played the accordion.  She continued to do these things throughout her life.  She always had music playing and would sing the harmony.  She loved old classic literature and was thrilled to have her picture taken in front of the home of Anne of Green Gables in PEI.  Alice's sense of humour was evident when she would mimic old limericks.

Alice was happiest when her "bunch" was gathered, whether it was a milestone event or a loud impromptu breakfast at their house after church, or just a visit around their kitchen table.

Alice and Jack enjoyed camping with family and friends over the years.  Their blue camping bus is a cherished memory.

Alice was always up on current events in the world and liked a good conversation about them.  Autumn weather was her favourite.   St Patrick's Day was special to her as her parents immigrated to Canada from Ireland.   She loved a good cup of coffee with friends and never understood why someone would put sugar in coffee.   Her kind, caring nature was reflected in how she treated others, right down to rescuing stray cats.  She was also strong willed and forthright on matters dear to her heart.

Alice was a proud lifelong member of the Catholic Women's League.  Her faith was a strong, personal guidance in her life.

She loved and cherished her husband Jack, their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  And they knew it.  Everyone had their own unique connection with her.  We take comfort knowing she's now dancing with dad. 

Due to Covid restrictions, the funeral service was closed.   Donations made in Alice's memory to the Gull Lake Special Care Home Auxiliary Activity Department (Box 539 Gull Lake), or Autumn House (Box 630 Gull Lake), or to charity of the donor's choice, are appreciated by the family. 
Warren's Funeral Home were entrusted with the arrangements. For further information call 306-773-8831 or 1-800-267-6606 or visit our website at www.warrensfuneralhome.com and express your sympathy on the family tribute wall.

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