It is with a heartfelt sorrow that Irene Langlois, also known as Rena, passed on February 17, 2024 at NHS-St. Catharines Site. She was surrounded by her daughters, Claudia Langlois (Gord Sharpe), Michelle Elliott (Ken) and Loraine Middlekamp (Matt). Irene was also an Omi to four grandchildren, 2 boys from Michelle and Ken, Alex, 25, and Jason, 23, and 1 girl and 1 boy from Loraine and Matt, Dan, 15, and Otto, 12. Irene was also a step-grandmother to Colin Sharpe, the son of Gord Sharpe, Claudia’s late husband. Irene was also grandmother to many fur babies, including 18 cats, which she was allergic to; however, she had unconditional love for them as did they for her.
Irene Waltraud Langlois, known by close friends as Rena, was born in Duderstadt, Germany on September 13, 1948. Duderstadt is a small town which has roots dating back to 949 AD is situated on the West side of the former East and West Border established during World War II. It was in this small city that Irene’s mother, Waltraud, met Irene’s father, Martin. Martin had left East Prussia during the war with four children from a previous marriage, three girls and a boy. One of the girls was murdered by the Russians, not able to ensure his child was alive or dead, Martin had to continue the journey with his three other children. Through the union of Waltraud and Martin, five more children were created, Irene being the eldest. Irene’s younger brother, who was born 2 years after Irene, had a tragic accident 6 weeks after the family moved to Cologne. He died at age 6, run over by a transport truck. Irene’s three younger sisters were later born. Irene is predeceased by her sister, Gisella. Her sisters Martina Eberhart (Gunter) and Petra Schoenig (Thomas) continue to live in the vicinity of Cologne. Irene was very close to her sisters.
Irene was a beautiful young woman, at 16 she looked older than a teenager and she dressed in modern European style. She worked in the laboratory at Bayer in Leverkusen, Germany. It was during this time that she met Walter Langlois at one of the seasonal fairs that Cologne is famous for, Carnaval. As a child Irene was determined, as a teenager she was persistent, strong willed and looking for adventure. She told Walter she was 24, when in fact she was 16. Less than a year into their relationship, Irene became pregnant. At 17, Irene married Walter in a black sequin dress in the city hall. Five months later, Irene and her mother walked to the hospital and Claudia was born, 4 days before Irene’s 18th birthday.
Irene stayed home to take care of Claudia while Walter worked. It was challenging to find a suitable apartment and there was a 10 year wait list for the accommodations Irene and Walter preferred in order to raise a family. They decided that North America would offer more opportunities. Walter came to Canada in January 1967 and Irene and Claudia followed on April 18, 1967.
They started their Canadian adventures in Sarnia, Ontario. It was not an easy time for them, now with two young children and a language barrier, providing was a challenge. Irene learned how to speak English by watching Sesame Street. Irene enjoyed socializing and she met many people to assist her with her language development. Walter and Irene stayed in Sarnia for three years before moving to Kincardine, where Irene and Walter lived until they separated. She then moved to St. Catharines where she felt at home with many dear friends.
During Irene’s time in Kincardine, she pursued Belly Dancing as a hobby. She sold Avon, waitressed and updated her office skills through courses. A woman beyond the small farming community of 2,000, Irene always was stylish. Packages from Germany arrived with clothing for her and the children, styles that were years ahead of Canada. Irene returned often to Germany to see her mother, father and siblings. Irene became rooted in Canada and this country became more home to her than Germany.
During her time in St. Catharines, Irene developed her spirituality and became a healer. She was a Reiki Master, offered acupressure, provided treatment in Bach Flower Remedies, balanced Chakras with tuning forks and channeled. A believer of Angels, Irene was an Angel on this earth. A kind, warm hearted, generous woman who smiled with her eyes. She was a gentle soul, yet strength, determination and resilience were her in her core.
Irene loved gardening. Her haven was her small backyard which was filled with blooming flowers, insects a buzz, birds fluttering about and squirrels trying to be a part of the peace and tranquility she had created in a busy neighbourhood. She enjoyed growing vegetables and canning the produce and cooking. She made the best Black Forest Cake.
Irene also loved to get dressed up and go dancing with her partner Joe Jalapia. Each weekend for 25 years, Irene and Joe would alternate weekend locations between St. Catharines and Kitchener. During these weekends, they explored their local areas and attended Croatian picnics, German dances, wine festivals and fishing in various rivers and lakes. They often travelled across the border to the US and had yearly adventures to Caribbean Islands either by plane or cruises. Irene loved the sun and she liked to be warm. She and Joe enjoyed each other’s company and they spent much time together. Irene lived and loved life. She loved to travel and dance. She loved dressing in bright sparkly clothing; she was a bright spirit. She was a nurturer who enjoyed helping others. Joe misses Irene’s companionship immensely.
Irene’s sudden death was a shock. She was diagnosed with renal cancer in her lungs and God gave her two weeks to live. Despite this news, the week Irene spent in our presence was with determination, admiration, and happiness. During her time in the hospital the nurses loved being in the presence of Irene. Her positive demeanor was refreshing, and her smile was uplifting. Even during Irene’s final days, she continued to exude love to her daughters and grandchildren and everyone she loved. Her last days provided smiles, a sparkle in her eyes and words of love. She accepted her final journey with dignity, joy and she prepared herself for her departure. She was ready to leave and when she did, she did it her way. 4:55 am on Saturday, February 17, 2024. Irene was an angel on earth and her angels were waiting and rejoicing in receiving a true angel. An angel who will continue to be a presence and help to many. Rena’s many friends miss her beautiful kindness and cheerful nature. We miss our Mom. Joe misses his companion. Irene’s many friends miss her presence. We are all blessed to have known Rena.
There will be a Celebration honouring Irene’s life on Saturday, July 13 from 1 -4 at Irene’s home, 37 Manchester Avenue, St. Catharines.
Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (between Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144. Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca