McCurdy, Iva Margaret – Old Barns

After 89 years of a happy and fulfilling life Iva died peacefully at home in Old Barns on April 13, 2014. Born December 13, 1924 in Grand Pre, she was the daughter of the late Scott and Margaret Trenholm. She is survived by daughters , Beckie (Lorne) Burrows, Heather; daughter-in-law, May Doyle; son, Duncan (Suzanne); grandchildren, Quinn, Frances, Ella and Caleb. She was predeceased by her husband P. Allison; son, E. Paul; brothers, Bruce and Craig. Iva grew up helping on the family farm in Grand Pre, which helped to form the basis of her strong grounding and values. She attended Acadia for two years taking secretarial courses, but realized that agriculture was her passion. She was only the second woman to enroll in the degree program at the NSAC, which she finished at MacDonald College (McGill). She graduated in 1948 with a degree in Animal Husbandry. Upon returning home, she worked for the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture as an Ag. Rep. from 1948-1952. Among many varied duties she was involved in setting up several 4-H clubs in central Nova Scotia. In 1952 she married Allison and they settled in to farm together, both in spirit and practice. She was fully involved in all aspects of running an expanding dairy farm and family. She would frequently be found baling hay or milking cows and was particularly proud of their purebred Holsteins. Iva was also fully involved in her community and was an active member of the Old Barns United Church and the UCW until her health declined. In her spare time (spare time?!) she enjoyed painting and art. In her later years, Iva took great joy in the activities and accomplishments of all her grandchildren. Iva has been cremated. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Old Barns United Church M&S Fund which she greatly supported or a charity of your choice would be appreciated. A celebration of Iva’s life will be held on April 22 at 1 pm in the Old Barns United Church. Special thanks to Sue, Sarah, Teresa and Lorie for the outstanding care, compassion and friendship they have shown, in particular the ginger snaps which she so enjoyed. Also thanks to Lisa of Palliative Care and the VON. Arrangements entrusted to Colchester Community Funeral Home from where on-line condolences may be made at www.ColchesterCommunity.com