It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Irene Lenora Nahm on July 26th, 2015, due to heart failure.

Irene “Rene” was born on July 1st, 1937 in Edmonton, Alberta, where she spent her early childhood. She moved with her family to Kelowna, British Columbia in 1949. It was here that her passion for horses was sparked, and many days were spent taking lessons and riding throughout the Kelowna area. After graduating from high school, Irene moved to Kamloops to study nursing at Royal Inland Hospital. In 1957, Irene married the love of her life, Gerry. This year they would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary. Together they spent their years living in the North Okanagan where they raised their three children. Irene served as President of the Vernon and District Riding Club, volunteered her time to Hospice care, Girl Guides, and the North Okanagan Therapeutic Riding Association, and was involved alongside Gerry with the North Okanagan Vintage Car Club.

Those who knew Irene will remember her as a compassionate soul and caregiver to all, be they two or four-legged. Witty, intelligent and well read, she had a propensity for puzzles and logic. She is survived by her husband Gerry, brother Harvey (Penny), brother-in-law Tilman, aunt Phyllis, children Cathryn (Klaus), Kevin (Sue), and Wendy (Tom), and grandchildren (Nicole, Jeannine, Brue, Brianne, Jordan and Jarret). A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the North Okanagan Therapeutic Riding Association (NOTRA). NOTRA provides therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with special needs. Donations can be made online through the NOTRA website (www.notra.info) or by mail: North Okanagan Therapeutic Riding Association 9380 Highway 97N (Vernon) Box 58, Armstrong, BC V0E 1B0.