Don Irwin

Donald Creto Irwin of Blenheim passed away at home on Saturday April 6, 2019; the day that marked 73 years of marriage to his lovely wife Vera (DeLeeuw) Irwin and two days before his 97^th birthday. Don is also survived by his much loved daughter Mary Dawn and his grandsons Mitchell Snobelen, Chuck Irwin and Jesse James Irwin. He was predeceased by his son Tim Irwin in 1991, by his parents Creto & Florence (Rumble) Irwin and his only sister Evelyn Eves.

Don was a veteran of World War II. He was a hard working man who showed fortitude and determination throughout his life. Most of his working career was spent as a cement mason though he did work for a time at Standard Tube and for Jack Ford at the Ford Funeral Home. He was always proud of his family and he was happy that he was able to provide for them. He was a member of Trinity Anglican Church in Blenheim as well as the Blenheim Legion. He loved playing horseshoes.

Don could often be seen walking around town. Even when his eyesight began to fail him, his determination did not. He instinctively knew how far to walk and when to turn, where to step up and down and when the lights turned red which allowed him to go for a daily walk to get his mail. In his final years he was able to feel safe and loved at home with Vera, Mary Dawn and Mitchell.

It was Don’s request that cremation take place. A private family graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery. Blenheim Community Funeral Home entrusted with funeral arrangements. Friends wishing to remember Don with a memorial donation are asked to consider Trinity Anglican Church or the Blenheim Freedom Library & Military Musuem.