Obituary of Irma Josephine Stirtzinger

March 26, 1928 – March 9, 2024

Saturday, March 9th, Irma Stirtzinger (nee Schwoob) passed peacefully at University Hospital, London, Ontario.

She is survived by her daughters, Marsha Bunce (Charles)  and Pamela Kelterer (late John). Grandmother to Meghan Bunce, David Bunce (Julie nee Mitchell) and Jordan Kelterer. Great-grandmother to Abigail and Madelyn Bunce. She is also survived by her sister, June Shorthouse (late Fred), and sister-in-law Audrey Schwoob (predeceased by brother Ross Schwoob). 

Irma was born in the small Niagara Region town of Wellandport and grew up on her family's farm. She and her late husband, A.E. “Ed” Stirtzinger spent most of their lives in Fonthill and Welland where they raised their children, formed many friendships and enjoyed working in the community.  

A woman of strong resolve, Irma enjoyed working even at a time when many women had limited working opportunities. Some of those early jobs, such as working at a tuberculosis sanatorium, brought risk and challenges. She taught typing at Welland Business College and enjoyed many secretarial jobs. One such job was working for Dr. Craig Zavitz (chiropractic office). She worked at Port Colborne Secondary School where she enjoyed all the young people. As a salesperson at People's Jewellers, she was pleased to sell 50-cent clip-on earrings or the finest engagement rings. Irma brought her personality to all of her work.

Upon retirement, she and her husband moved to Oakville, Ontario where she enjoy volunteering and many hobbies. She loved games of all sorts and was an avid bridge player active in many circles. A skilled knitter, many enjoyed wearing her clothes or snuggling up under her blankets.

Her early farm days never left her, even when she moved to London, Ontario. She always carried her concern for farmers' crops, often worried about the fruit blossoms if we had a cold-snap in April. Even in her final years, she offered to dig-up and plant raised beds and water plants, all from her wheelchair while at Mount Hope Centre for Long-Term Care, her final home.

Irma lived for over three years at the Mount Hope Centre for Long-Term Care, which she was proud of and considered “home”.  She enjoyed her involvement with the residents and staff and all of the fun social activities.  The family wants to thank the staff of Mount Hope for the excellent care they provided Irma.

A private, family celebration and interment will be held.  Any donations may be made to the Mount Hope Centre for Long-Term Care. 

Click HERE to view a clip of Irma being interviewed by CBC, London.