Obituary of Irene Kress

Irene Florence (nee Liboiron) Kress

June 11, 1932 – January 8, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Irene Kress at the age of 90, at the Prairie View Health Centre in Mankota, SK on January 8, 2023. Family came from far and near to be by her side and comfort her on her final journey. Irene was born in Ponteix, SK to Wilfred and Aldéa Liboiron. She was raised and schooled in Ponteix. She was the youngest of five siblings. After graduation, Irene accepted her first teaching position at Valley St. Claire Country School near Cadillac. She continued to teach at Barr School, west of Mankota for 8 years until the school was closed. While teaching she met a little girl Elaine Kress who said “You should meet my older Brother” who later became Irene’s husband. Julius and Irene were happily married for 69 years. During this happy time, they raised four children: Joseph, Gerald, Roger and Michael. Life with four boys was an adventure but she loved every minute of it. She had a wonderful sense of humour and always had a trick up her sleeve. Family times were plentiful and always treasured. Julius and Irene farmed and worked side by side raising cattle, gardening, planting and harvesting. Irene also worked at the Mankota Post Office for 25 years. Even though life was busy she always took time to enjoy it. 

Irene was predeceased by her parents Wilfred and Aldéa Liboiron, siblings Florence, Laurette, Simone, Maurice and Lucille, great-grandson Parker Kress and multiple nieces and nephews.

Irene is survived by her adoring husband of 69 years Julius Kress and her four loving sons: Joseph (Laureen),  grandchildren Terra, Dustin (Jessica), Jamee (Dan) and Joleen (Doug); Gerald (Karen),  grandchildren Christina, Timothy (Serena), Dalton (Nicole), Kayla (Evan), Kyle and Klinton (Cassie); Roger (Connie),  grandchildren Tyler (Kristen), Brittany (Mark), Alex (Kelsey) and Jenessa (Loic); Michael (Tracey),  grandchildren Mathew (Alysha) and Emily (Andrew); 23 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

When we look back, we realize that Irene has touched many hearts with her kindness and generosity. She will be missed by many. Our hearts burst with pride and love forever.  A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 14, 2023, 3:00 p.m., at St. Albert’s Roman Catholic Church in Mankota, SK. In lieu of flowers, donations in Irene’s memory can be made to the Mankota and District Auxiliary for the Prairie View Health Centre, Box 390 Mankota, SK S0H 2W0.