Obituary of Francis Ireland

June 17, 1920 - October 20, 2008

Francis Ernest Ireland, "Ernie", of Cranbrook passed away peacefully in the East Kootenay Regional Hospital on Monday, October 20th, after a long struggle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Ernie was born in Wycliffe, B.C and lived with his family in New Westminster, B.C. prior to joining the Air force in 1939. Ernie returned home injured at the end of the war. Ernie worked primarily in the forest industry on Vancouver Island, Golden and Nelson, B.C. He retired to Cranbrook with his wife Margaret in 1986. Ernie maintained a lifelong affiliation with the 458 squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force to which he was posted during the war and he was a member of the United Church of Canada, the legion, the Masons and AA.

Ernie is survived by his sister Mary (Arthur) Winstanley of Trail, British Columbia and family; his three daughters: Selina (Curtis) Buck of Calgary, Alberta, Patricia (David) Stock of Cranbrook, British Columbia, Vicky Adams of Cranbrook, British Columbia; 5 grandchildren: Erin Buck, Lonnie Adams, Christie (Whitney) Strong and family, Jennifer (Nathan) Sievert and family, Justin Bentley as well as many dear friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Margaret; son Donnie; brother Harry and sister Anne.

Ernie will be fondly remembered for his sharp mind, his charm and his great love for life, family and friends.

A memorial service will be held in Cranbrook on Saturday October 25th at 11:00 am, at McPherson's Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers those wishing to remember Ernie may do so with donations to: The Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund, 803 Cranbrook Street North, Cranbrook, British Columbia V1C 3S2 or to: The Salvation Army, (Christmas Families), 533 Slater Road, Cranbrook, British Columbia V1C 4Y5, or to: The East Kootenay Regional Hospital, 13 - 24th Avenue North, Cranbrook, British Columbia, V1C 3H9.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.Condolences for the family can be offered at:www.mcphersonfh.com