Irene's obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Irene Barreira, known as Avó to her 28 grandchildren on March 20, 2025. Born in the year 1934, she lived a full and rich life, marked by love, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to her family.
Irene was a loving, but stubborn woman who was often described as everyone’s mom. Her love for her family was evident in everything she did, from her early days in Portugal to her later years in Canada. She was a pillar of strength and an enduring source of love and comfort to her family and those who knew her.
Whether tending to her greenhouses, her favourite activity to force everyone to do, or attending church services, Irene's zest for life was palpable. Her ability to find joy and purpose in the simplest of things was one of her most endearing qualities.
One of Irene's greatest accomplishments was moving her entire family to Canada, a testament to her courage, determination and the deep love she had for her family. The importance of family was a lesson she lived by and generously shared with those around her.
Irene was predeceased by her loving Husband, Lorenzo Barreira. She is survived by her sons, Enzo, Alberto, Sergio, Joseph, David, Xavier, her daughter Maria, as well as her 28 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren who all fondly remember Irene as a beacon of love and a guiding force throughout their life. With her passing, we have lost a strong, compassionate matriarch, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
To Irene, family was not an important thing, it was everything. And while we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the remarkable life she led and the profound impact she has had on us all.