We Remember

SVENTEK, Iren

December 30, 1935 — November 27, 2024

It is with fondness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother, Iren Sventek, who departed this world on November 27, 2024, in Kelowna, BC, at the grand age of 89.

Born in Hungary on December 30, 1935, Iren lived a life that could best be described as a delightful mix of perseverance, adventure, and warmth. Iren is mourned and remembered by her two daughters, Mary and Irene, six grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by the father of her daughters, Bela Knetz, and by her parents, Janos and Rozalia.

Iren’s story began in Hungary, where she faced the trials of the Hungarian revolution and, with a desire for a peaceful life and her adventurous spirit, she made her way to Canada. She had two daughters in Hungary, one of whom sadly passed at six months old, while the other, Irene, would go on to play an important role in the family’s journey to a new life. Mary, Iren’s youngest, was born in Canada, and it was with great determination that Iren and Bela worked tirelessly to bring young Irene to join them in their new homeland of Canada.

In Canada, along with her then husband, Iren embraced entrepreneurship. She worked in the food industry and later, she ventured into owning and running a corner store, where her work ethic was rivalled only by her ability to make customers feel welcome. Iren and Bela, as a team, carved out a life of determination and success. Together, they also shared fond memories of travelling as a family to Arizona and New York, exploring new destinations and making memories along the way.

Though life in Canada was busy, Iren never forgot her roots. Once it was safe to travel, she returned to Hungary to reconnect with her parents and old friends.  Her love of cooking and baking, especially Hungarian dishes, was only surpassed by her fondness for dogs. A true animal lover, Iren’s fondness for her four-legged friends filled her life with companionship and joy.

Iren will be remembered not just for her strength, but for her kind nature, her laughter, and her generosity. While she’s left us, we’re comforted by the fact that she lived her days with a full heart, as anyone who truly embraces life does.

Friends and family will honour Iren each in their own way, no formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BC SPCA and Okanagan Humane Society (OHS).

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BC SPCA, spca.bc.ca. and Okanagan Humane Society (OHS), okanaganhumanesociety.com Link: spca.bc.ca, okanaganhumanesociety.com

 


 


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Tanya Kohar

In the past 2 years Springfield has helped us through the death of my Mother and my Father. Their response and help allowed us to focus on the remaining family rather than worrying about details of the funeral and all the notifications that are required upon a death.

Terry Eldridge

The atmosphere has been nothing but professional during times of grief.  After the passing of my mother, the staff coached me on the next steps and looked after filling in all the government forms that I needed to sign, which took a huge burden off my mind at the time.

Donald McClure

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Diane Greenwood

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Katherine Lewis

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Frances Baum

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