June 16, 1902 ~ November 7, 2007

WALLMAN - Passed away in the City of Lethbridge on Tuesday, November 7, 2007 at the tender age of 105 years.

Irene (Great Grandma) was a daughter of James S. Wilson and Mary Susan (nee Dearinger) Wilson in the USA state of Addy, Washington. Irene was the 3rd youngest of 8 children. Irene migrated to Alberta with her family in 1910, settling in the Bassano area of Alberta. She met and married Joseph Oscar Wallman of Sweden on December 23, 1920 and moved to the Foremost area of Southern Alberta. Irene resided in this area of Alberta with her sister Etna while the remainder of her family moved back to Addy, Washington following the death of her father (James) in 1931.

Irene is survived by her daughter Clara Chute of Calgary, Grandchildren Cam Wallman of Brooks, Roxy Schmidt of Swan Hills, Kim Poapst of Stettler, Brian Chute of Edmonton and Barry Chute of Calgary. She is also survived by 8 great-grandchildren.

Irene was predeceased by her husband Oscar Wallman in 1973 and 2 sons, Roy Wallman of Foremost in 2003 and Lawrence Wallman in 1946 along with one grandchild Timothy Wallman in 1964.

Irene can be best remembered, not only as a pioneer in Alberta, but as one who loved to care for children. She said it all began as a cook during the early years on thrashing crews when the men went to the fields and she would make sure the children were cared for. Irene possessed this skill even until 1995 when she traveled to Northern Alberta to look after her great-grandchildren while their families worked in the backcountry.

There is much to be said about a person who has lived a century. Irene's life began before the invention of the horseless buggy and ended with the digital electrons of the 21st century. During that time, Irene experienced the early years of farming in a harsh environment and the growth of communities on the prairies. Grandmother always said these sacrifices were undertaken by the early pioneers for the betterment of future generations. For this we are all grateful.

Special thanks from Irene's family to the Lethbridge Extendicare staff, which, in these past 5 years have shown complete devotion, loving care and nurturing for our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. A heartfelt ""Thank You"" goes out to you all.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00AM on Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at MARTIN BROS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 Street South, Lethbridge, with Canon James Robinson officiating. Interment to follow in the Archmount Cemetery.