It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Catherine “Irene” Harley (nee Hamilton) on January 16th, 2025, at the age of 84, peacefully in her sleep at the North Bay Regional Health Centre.
Irene was born in Redding, Scotland on November 25th, 1940, to the late John and Catherine Hamilton and grew up with 5 siblings. In 1963, she married her husband Michael and later welcomed two boys to the world, Charles Stuart and John Myles. In 1973, they moved to Canada and made North Bay home to raise their family in hopes of a better life.
Irene was predeceased by her beloved husband Michael, her son Myles (Vicki) and her brothers James Hamilton and John Hamilton (Mary). She will be deeply missed by her surviving son, Stuart, her cherished grandchildren, Michael, Stephanie (Matthew) and Emily, as well as her former daughter in law Pam. Irene was a proud Great Granny to Logan, who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her siblings Anne Leadbetter (predeceased Jackie), Hannah Murray (Bob), and Alexander Hamilton (Mary). Irene was a cherished aunt and great aunt; she will be missed deeply by many nieces and nephews.
Irene’s love for life was evident in the simple pleasures she enjoyed – watching TV, doing word searches, and knitting. She was happiest when taking care of wains (kids) and dugs (dogs). She loved her frequent trips to Scotland and the many adventures she shared with family, especially her sister Anne while visiting. She had a nurturing spirit and touched the hearts of those around her with kindness, warmth and an unwavering love. She was not afraid to say it how it was and be as blunt as possible at times.
A special thanks to the staff of the Flex unit at the NBRHC and Dr. Abeysinghe for the care given to Irene over the past 4.5 months. Although not where she wanted to be, she was safe and well taken care of.
She always said there was never a favorite, but it’s safe to say we all know who her favorite little boy was. A heartfelt gratitude goes to Irene’s best friend and sister, Hannah, her nieces Heather and Jacqueline, great niece and nephew, Peyton and Seth, Pam and everyone else who was there to help in the transition of Irene living independently to relying on others to live day to day. They always say it takes a village to raise a baby, but it also takes a village to care for a loved one.
As per her wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or service. A private celebration of life will take place at a later date.
Until we meet again – love you more!
If desired, donations to the NBRHC Flex Unit will be greatly acknowledge by the family.