April 13 1929 - May 15 2021
Ione passed away peacefully in her 93rd year on May 15th, 2021 while listening to her favorite music with granddaughter Maggie. She was the beloved wife of the late Maurice Barre, former wife and lifelong friend of Art Grainger (predeceased), and the proud and loving mother of Sherry Lee Armstrong, who predeceased her this past January, (Bob), Tom Grainger (Libby), and Bruce Grainger (Cathy).
Lovingly remembered as “Nannie” by her grandchildren Damian, Brenna, Rebecca, Maggie, Emma, Devan, and Sara, and her great grandchildren Jasper, Ruby and John. Dear sister of Karl and Blake Smith, predeceased by brothers Gilman and Dwight Smith and sisters Dwyla Hartmann and Linda Thompson. An active member in the Gateway Theatre Guild for over 40 years, Ione was involved in numerous productions, with a particular fondness for the time she spent playing the role of Linda Loman in Death of a Salesman. As a devoted member of Trinity United Church for over 60 years, she was further inspired by her love of theatre to create Trinity Troupe, a church fundraising effort for which she also directed many productions. A true renaissance woman, Ione found success in several jobs throughout her life—from news correspondent and proofreader to phone operator—and was a charter member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293 in Larder Lake. She was also an avid gardener, and later in life rose eagerly to the challenge of turning a large rock in the church courtyard into a flower garden, now fondly known as “Ione's Garden”. Her family would like to thank the staff on the 2nd floor (“Birch Street”) of Cassellholme. Their kindness, love, and genuine care for Ione during her battle with Alzheimers will be remembered always.
Ione’s family will receive friends at Martyn Funeral Home on Thursday May 20, from 12 noon until 2:00pm. A private family service will follow. Due to the current pandemic restrictions which limit the number of visitors those wishing to attend visitation are asked to call the funeral home, 705-472-8810 to confirm an arrival time. A service to celebrate Ione’s life will be conducted by Rev. Ted Harrison and will be streamed through the funeral home’s Facebook page. If desired donations to Trinity United Church, or to Cassellholme ill be gratefully acknowledged as expressions of sympathy.