HELEN ESTHER IRWIN (nee CERSON)

June 17, 2024

Helen Esther Irwin (nee Cerson), beloved wife of the late Allan Irwin, of Ripley, died Monday, June 17, 2024, at Walkerton Hospital in her 91st year. Born in Kincardine, July 31, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Agnes (Reid) and Wilfred Cerson. Dear mother of Kathryn Irwin of London, Joan Irwin of Richmond Hill, Connie (Jerry) Zrini of London and Paul Irwin (Ingrid Wypkema) of Point Clark. Greatly missed by her grandchildren, Andrew Paquette, Katelyn Paquette (Steve Lantos), Rachael Zrini and Emily Zrini; and great-grandson, Istvan Lantos-Paquette. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her brothers, Clarence (Jean) Cerson, Alvin (Melva) Cerson, and Earl (Nora) Cerson. Allan and Helen Irwin were married for more than 65 years and farmed on the 4th Concession of Huron Township for about 20 years. They then moved into Ripley where they lived for the remainder of their married life. Most recently, Helen was living at Rosewood RVilla in Ripley. Helen will be remembered for her sewing finesse and for creating beautiful handmade quilts for her children and grandchildren. She was a member of the local quilting guild, and over the years, won several ribbons for her quilts at the Ripley Fall Fairs. She was a great baker and her pies were especially appreciated by many. She worked at the Hurontel office in Ripley for a period of time, and enjoyed leading a number of 4-H Clubs. Another interest was genealogy and she helped trace the family history on the Cerson/Reid side. Several cousins on the Reid family side held reunions on a regular basis which Helen loved attending. She also kept up with, and had an interest in, many nieces and nephews across Canada. The family expresses sincere thanks for the excellent care provided by her family doctor, Dr. Jason Murray, for many years, and all the kind and caring staff at Rosewood RVilla. Visitation will be held Friday, June 21, 2024, at the MacKenzie and McCreath Funeral Home, Ripley, from 3-5 p.m. The funeral will be conducted from the chapel, Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 2 p.m. Interment, Ripley Cemetery. Donations to St. Andrew’s United Church in Ripley or Osteoporosis Canada, are greatly appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Condolences may be made on-line at www.mackenzieandmccreath.com.