Iris Hosler

HOSLER, Iris Jean (Dunham) – Passed away peacefully at Oshawa General Hospital on Saturday, July 17, 2021. Iris was born in Birtle, Manitoba to Clement and Jennie Dunham on September 2nd, 1927. She had 3 younger brothers; twins Bob and Garth, as well as Ray. Growing up in rural Manitoba, Iris spent her spare time tormenting her little brothers. Story has it that if one of 'the boys' cried out her father would yell for Iris, being quite confident that she was the instigator. In 1950, she met and fell in love with a tall, handsome man named Cliff, working at the dry cleaners in Neepawa, Manitoba and later that year, they were married. Soon after, Ronald and Barry were born. Cliff’s work moved them to Thunder Bay and later Laurel arrived. Iris was an avid reader and loved all things crafty - knitting, embroidery and painting (and clearly, she passed these genes along as 2 granddaughters went on to get their degrees in fine art). As the children got older, Iris returned to work at White Rose nurseries - adding a love of all things green and lush to her pastimes. She often had orchids that bloomed for years. Iris made friends quickly and easily - but more importantly she kept friends for decades. She welcomed newcomers to the neighbourhood as well as new ministers to her church with baked goods or an invite for Sunday dinner. Her address books were full of friends and acquaintances from over the years and was a dedicated letter writer to all (Canada Post will miss her!). Missing her greatly are those she leaves behind; her brother Garth (Lucy) Dunham and children Ron (Gail) Hosler, Laurel (Joseph) Halliwushka, and the late Barry (surviving wife Cathy). She also leaves a legacy of love and laughter in her grandchildren - Christa (Mike) Talarowski, Curtis Hosler, Rebecca (Dave) DeCator, Samantha (Mike) Roszell, Jennifer and Adam Cornthwaite, Jennifer (Theo) Halliwushka and Ryan Halliwushka. As well as great-grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew, Sophie, Nicholas, Theron, London, Eve and another one on the way. Cremation has been entrusted to Community Alternative Funeral Home and a Celebration of life will follow in a few weeks’ time, in Lakefield. Donations to the Lakefield United Church or to the Oshawa General Hospital in Iris' memory, would be gratefully acknowledged. Condolences to the family may be made through the funeral home online. www.CommunityAlternative.ca

Iris Hosler

September 2, 1927 - July 17, 2021