IRENE MATLAS, beloved wife of Peter Matlas of Lethbridge, passed away suddenly after a lengthy illness, at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at the age of 62 years.
Besides her loving husband, she is survived by two grandchildren, Kira and Savannah Davoren, one brother, Henry (Jean) Kazala of Lethbridge, their family as well as numerous other relatives in Canada and Poland.
Irene was predeceased by her parents Stan and Anna Szumlas.
Irene was born on February 9, 1953 in Taber where she was also raised and educated. Irene traveled to Poland on a family vacation in 1973 and met the love of her life, Peter Matlas. Three days later they were married and were together for 42 years. She was an active member of the Polish Canadian Association, achieving the role of President; the first Canadian born person of Polish descent to be in this position in Lethbridge. Irene was decorated by the Polish Congress of Canada with a gold commemorative medal. Her pride and joy was her loving husband and her granddaughters, Kira and Savannah. She will be sadly missed by many.
A Private Family Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME with Deacon Frank Peta officiating.
An Interment will follow at MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY.
In lieu of flowers and in memory of Irene, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, #204, 2323-32 Ave. NW, Calgary, AB, T2E 6Z9 or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Box 2211, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 4K7
Peter&Doreen Smith, January 8, 2016
Chris&Heather Wozniczko, January 7, 2016
yola sandzewicz, January 6, 2016
Jean (Ola) Kazala, January 5, 2016
Ron &Ingrid wolodchenko, January 5, 2016
Barbara Szulczewski, January 4, 2016
Mary Ann Taylor, January 4, 2016
Danette Kazala, January 4, 2016
Anne Paziuk, January 4, 2016
Stanley & Diann Szumlas, January 3, 2016