Nancy “Ileen” Sumner

1931 ~ 2015

After a brief illness Ileen passed peacefully on April 20. She was born in the old Galt Hospital on February 4, 1931 to Wilfred and Polly Firth (nee Watmough). Her first home was in West Lethbridge where the present University of Lethbridge now stands.

When the family moved to the city they resided in the apartment above the present Greyhound Bus Depot Ileen attended Central, Fleetwod, Westminster and graduated from LCI picking up lifetime friendships along the way.

Her first job was at Union Tractor (Caterpillar Dealer) located on 2nd Ave South. She then to joined the office staff at the Anderson-Speelman Chiropractic Clinic. Ileen greeted and helped thousands of patients over her 25 year tenure leading to a well-deserved retirement.

Ileen married Jack, the man of her dreams, on August 16, 1950. This union celebrated 51 anniversaries until Jack’s passing in 2002. She was a long time member of the Lethbridge Legion Ladies Auxiliary and was a frequent volunteer and supporter of the many activities that Jack was involved in. Ileen was most grateful and proud to be a member of one very unique, enduring and supportive friendship groups. This group of friends have met continuously for a total of 65 years and sadly with Ileen’s passing is now down to three.

Ileen was predeceased by her parents Wilfred and Polly, sister Winnifred, and brother Albert (Jean) Firth. She is survived by nieces and nephews, Rick (Deb) Martin, Tom Martin, Romona (Bruce) Quaale, Virginia (Bob) Smith, Jack (Gaye) Sleightholm, Patty Sleightholm, Lynda (Lance) Brown, Betty (Doug) Florence, Rita Shaw, Don (Carol) Firth, Maxine, Ken (Pat) Firth, Ted and Kelly Firth, Bob (Connie) Firth, Stuart (Lynn) Firth, Karen Firth Lorraine McIntyre.

As a member of a Pioneer Lethbridge Family Ileen was extremely proud of her 35 great, 32 great-great and 18 great-great-great nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Reception will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, April 24, 2015 at the ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BRANCH #4, 324 Mayor Magrath Dr. South, Lethbridge (Use the North Entrance). Interment to follow in Mountain View Field of Honour.

In lieu of flowers, Ileen has requested that memorial donations be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Visit www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.