November 2, 1920 - June 15, 2019
Irene Agatha Duggan, a long-time resident of the Duncan area, passed away on the 15th day of June 2019 at Sunridge Place in Duncan, British Columbia.
Irene was born in Topsail, Newfoundland, to Arthur and Bridget Duff on November 02, 1920.
Irene was well known for her determination and strength. She grew up on her parents dairy farm during the "hungry thirties" and it was there, she learned about life and survival.
In her late teens she attended Secretarial School and from there developed a love for business. She graduated with a "Commercial Certificate in Shorthand and Typing".
Shortly after graduation, Irene was presented with an opportunity to go into business. She accepted and became proprietor of a successful rooming house, in St Johns, NL. And it was there, that she met and married John Francis Duggan (Frank). Several years later, Irene and Frank moved to Grand Falls, NL, where they became owners and operators of a successful hospitality business.
Then in 1968, they felt the need for a change in lifestyle, so Irene and Frank along with 4 of their youngest children moved to BC. Their dream was to relax and enjoy a more leisurely lifestyle. For Irene, this became a reality when Frank secured a job and a home on one of the local dairy farms.
While living on the farm, Irene began thinking of ways she could supplement the family income. So with a business plan in place, and with the help and support of her husband Frank, they were able to combine work and business. Hobby farming turned out to be the perfect solution.
After leaving the farm, Irene and Frank purchased their own piece of property in Glenora. For them, the property was perfect, it had acreage enough for a small hobby farm. While there she also found time for other hobbies, she became an avid stamp and coin collector.
Sadly however in 1977, Irene lost her husband Frank to cancer. He was 56 years old. After Frank's passing, Irene moved from Glenora into Duncan.
Irene is preceded in death by her husband John Francis Duggan, their son Leonard Duggan and their son Randolph Duggan.
Irene is survived by her eldest son Joseph Duggan Sr. (Betty), daughter Bridget Kelly (Cecil), daughter Joan Streloff (John), son John Duggan (Laurel), daughter Linda Duncan and son Thomas Duggan. Irene is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren.
Special thanks go out today to Sunridge Place where Irene has resided for the last 10 years.
Special thanks also to Dr. Tom Rimmer. This has been a very difficult journey for the family, and you were there for us from the beginning. Thank you so very very much, we will be forever grateful.
And to our many friends, thank you for your support and kindness.
Online condolences may be made at www.hwwallacebc.com
H.W. Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre