IRENE REDBOURN

Condolences & Memories (2 entries)

• When I think back on the many wonderful childhood memories I have of IreneI am reminded that during that time she lived in two different railroad stations, Cabot and Asearle. It is almost like going back in history….to a different time. Particularly Cabot because it was extremely isolated. But it was a great place for imagination to thrive. Everything from playing detectives, nurses and horses around the outbuildings of the station to playing ranchers on the dining table on the inside of the station was just so exhilarating. Mrs. Snodgrass was one of the characters we invented. At times we were exotic princesses adorned with jewelry from Woolworth’s and rich, red velvet curtains from the attic. Dancing around the potbellied stove in the waiting room was great fun. The music came from the wind up gramophone. In winter we would toboggan over mountains of snow created by snow fences In summer Irene introduced me to fireflies assuring me they wouldn’t set fire to the prairie. One particular memory I have was all dressed up in my new silk dress from Uncle Edward. After fashioning clay figures under the railway station Irene and I noticed that my dress was a little soiled.so Irene aided me by dunking me in the rain barrel to clean up. This practical solution was not appreciated by mom or grandma. Many times we hiked to Assiniboine Park Zoo carrying enormous gooey cinnamon buns fresh baked by grandma. Wow what an adventure as we stayed well away from the buffalo’s enclosure. There were signs warning of buffalos charging the chain link fence Her love of animals was apparent as she shared tips for their care particularly cats and kittens Such precious memories Irene! THANK YOU! You are missed. - Posted by: Elaine Rasmussen (Niece) on: Jan 10, 2024

• I remember our family visits in Winnipeg that always put a smile on my face. Aunt Irene chummed mostly with my sister when we would visit as she was older. What I do remember was her kindness and her laughter. She most certainly had a contagious giggle. One particular humorous moment was when a "new" exercise machine was brought into the living-room. It was one of those things you laid on and then it practically folded you in half. Of course the uncontrollable laughter started when everyone tried to get off of the thing. Like my Aunt Rose, Aunt Irene loved animals, was caring and kind and although we hadn't seen each other in many years we kept in touch through her sister, my mom, and following her passing by letter. She is missed. Her passing has ended a generation of our family never to be forgotten. Love always - Shirley and Jerry Campbell - Posted by: Shirley Campbell (Aunt) on: Jan 06, 2024