We Remember
IRVINE, Doris “Jean” (née Fenton)
January 28, 1927 — October 18, 2020
Jean Irvine was born in Westbank, BC to Vince & Euphemia Fenton in the family home on Elliott Road. Jean lived most of her 93 years in the Westbank area, actively involved in the community and church.
All Mom’s life, she enjoyed cooking and baking. As a young girl she had mastered making pies by the age of 8, and as a young wife & mother she won numerous prizes at the Annual Westbank Fall Fair. She was an excellent cook, no store bought cookies in our house, and she made the best fried chicken and buns. Jean studied to be a secretary in Kelowna, BC and worked for S.M. Simpson. In 1945, Jean married Adrian Reece, and they moved to the ‘Faulkner Place’ (an orchard that is now Smith Creek Care Facility). Their next move was to Lakeview Heights in 1958, taking advantage of the Veteran’s Land Act to purchase raw land. Jean was hardworking and instrumental in the success of running the farm, running her home and raising her children. Mom knew how to work hard. She worked for many years as a school secretary for SD #23, spending most of her time at Hudson Road School. In 1981, Jean married Percy Irvine. Together they had wonderful times travelling the world. Jean moved into Westwood after Percy’s death, joined the singing group & enjoyed the people she met.
Surviving Jean are her children Gary (Jennifer), Jeanette, Colin (Jeannette) and Kathleen (Claude); grandchildren Eleanor, Katherine, Koreen, Adrian, Daryn (Lisa), Carly (Matt), and Hannah; and four great-grandchildren Quinten, Brianna, Micah, and Winter. Jean was a kind, gentle soul with a beautiful smile. She will be deeply missed by all those that loved her. The family would like to thank Dr. Banwell, Dr. Burnett, and the staff at Pine Acres for their care & compassion.
A private service will be held at a later date. If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Big hugs sent to all. We have many fond memories of Jean from working for SD#23 to having the odd gin in the mid 70’s and visiting at many gatherings over the years. She always worried about her kids and was a down to earth lovely person. Jean will be missed 💕
Sincerely, Linda, Fred and Erika McNeill