Irma Webb

WEBB, Irma – Vibrantly alive in her 89th year –
On February 17th, Irma Webb (nee Jahnke) died suddenly with her beloved husband Paul at her side. She will be sorely missed by her loving children and families: Stephen, Michele, and Isla (Mach Webb); Gordon, Lucia, and Kyrie (Vala-Webb); David, Lori, Emily and sorely-missed Joshua (Mazza Webb); and Karen (Webb). Predeceased by her parents Gustav and Sadie Jahnke, she was one of 12 children and is survived by her siblings Harvey, Albert, Ruth, Curtis, Lorene, Virgil, Lois and Genevieve (predeceased by Art, Lawrence and Gordon).
Born on a farm in Saskatchewan during the Depression, she graduated from Bethel College with a Bachelor’s degree in domestic science and later graduated with a BSW from the University of Manitoba. As a social worker she worked in social assistance, child care and women’s shelters. Moving to Hong Kong with a young family was the start of a sixteen-year adventure. She was always active in her local church and made many contributions there and in her volunteer work. In the Village by the Arboretum she continued her many interests including playing cards, square dancing, exercising and crafting with her grandchildren.
She loved music, was a certified Ikebana teacher (Japanese flower arranging), deeply enjoyed the cottage, loved dogs and walking / talking. Preparing meals and baking for family and friends gave her great joy; she kept in touch with her many friends in Canada and abroad.
In keeping with her wishes, her body has been donated to the Human Anatomy program at the University of Guelph. A memorial service will be held at Harcourt United Church,87 Dean Ave., Guelph on Saturday, March 12 at 1:00 p.m.. A celebration-of-life reception will follow at Reid Hall, Village by the Arboretum. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to Irma’s favourite causes: Harcourt Memorial United Church, Hospice Wellington, or Chalmers Community Service Centre.