IRENE BRADFORD July 7, 1920 - January 31, 2008 Oh Lord please give us a hand As we wander through this land She left heart prints in our sand With unconditional love with no demand Like a mother to me, like a mother to all Always there to catch you when you fall The world left so much a better place Given your beauty, your love, your grace How can we go on without you? It doesn't seem the right thing to do How do you say goodbye to part of your heart Where do we begin, where do we start? Give me the directions, I'll follow the recipe To this engulfing fog, so hard to see What in the world is going to happen to your family? Is there not some prayer, bargain or plea That will keep you safe with me? I'd climb the highest mountain Scale the tallest tree, if only To bring you back to our family. The family of Irene Bradford is saddened by her passing on. Irene joins her husband Albert, her sons Jack and Chuck and many more loved ones in Heaven. Left behind in gratitude for their love and memories are "My Baby Girl" Marjorie Patterson, "My Baby Boy" Tim Patterson (Helen), Sister Fanny and families, Grandchildren Miette, Hugh (Jen), Scott, Lane (Christine), Darin, and Devin (Julie) and many nieces and nephews. Special angels to Irene's heart were her great grandchildren Rikki, Jessie and Paige (birthday twin). Irene touched many lives and was a friend to all. She was born Irene Cleaveley on July 7, 1920 in Mt. Olie, B.C. Irene was one of nine children and the Cleaveley's were one of the original pioneering families of the North Thompson Valley. Irene spent most of her life in the Round Top/Barriere area. Irene's first married George Patterson in 1943 and they had four children. Later Irene married Albert Bradford and enjoyed almost forty-two years of marriage. Irene was dedicated to her family, friends and community. Her door was always open, the tea was always on and she made sure you had something to eat. Irene had a huge heart that reached out and touched so many, and hands were always held out to lift you up. Irene loved being an Avon Lady for the majority of her adult life and I'm sure she's ringing Heaven's bell, saying "Avon Calling". Irene was loved by all and will be missed by many. As it was her late husband's wish, Irene chose not to have funeral service. In lieu of flowers people can make a donation to the Barriere Health Clinic in her name or you can reach out to someone in need as Irene reached out to all. Special thanks to Dr. Clare, Dr. Jack, Dr. Just, Dr. Gormen, and a very special thanks to Dr. Leia-Stephen and all medical staff. Also thanks to hospital roommate/guardian angel Wendy McDermott (John), Aunt Fanny, Aunt Margaret, Brenda, Bernice and Stacey. As well, a heartfelt thanks to Vince at Fischer's Funeral Services and Crematorium