Myra Gwenllian Hourihan

Myra Hourihan passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at the age of 84 years, with her family by her side. Myra is lovingly remembered by her children Peter (Donna), Sarah Marie (Graham), and Patrick. She is fondly loved by her six grandchildren, whom she loved more than life itself and consistently bragged about (and for this we apologize to family members): Christopher and Michelle Hourihan, Danielle, Renae, Andrea and Camille Polan. Myra is now reunited in Heaven with her husband, Walter; her sweet youngest child, Jennifer; her brother Douglas; and many cherished in-laws, including Marion and Walter Hourihan and their children Marie (Joe), Theresa (Semon), and Rita (Jack). She will be missed by her surviving in-laws Helen and Colin MacIsaac; Joan and Dave Ferraro; and Shirley Mitchell; as well as by numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren and friends. Myra was born in Lewisham District of Catford in London, England on October 2, 1933. Orphaned at a young age, Myra lived through the Great Depression and WWII and learned to work hard and focus on her faith in God. She put herself through nursing school in London and became a certified Registered Nurse in the United Kingdom on December 2, 1954. In 1956, she set sail for Canada along with her brother Douglas Mitchell and his wife, Shirley. She always said that Canada was her true home. Myra loved Canada and all that this beautiful country offered. Myra settled in Three Hills, Alberta. Here she worked as a nurse in the Three Hills hospital. She met Walter Hourihan and his many family members. She was warmly welcomed and loved by the Hourihan family and for this she was always so grateful. She and Walter wed on December 31, 1956. Myra was certified as a Registered Nurse in Canada on June 11, 1957. She specialized in maternal care and midwifery. Her love of babies was a life long passion, as was her talent for sewing and knitting the most intricate and beautiful baby sweaters. She also enjoyed cooking and walking the paths of Calgary. Myra's four children, and later her six grandchildren, became her number one focus. She worked tirelessly to ensure that they read daily, did their chores, went to parks, played, were well educated, and helped out those in need. She was the most doting and proud Grandma, teaching the grandchildren how to do puzzles, recite prayers, cook, play, and enjoy one another. Camping and traveling to Banff, Penticton and Kelowna remained a favorite past time for many years. Her family summer spot in Winfield, BC became a place where all were welcome. Much fun was had on the beaches, in the park and in one of Walter's many trailers. Myra strongly believed in helping others. She and Walter were devoted to their many charities: the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Mustard Seed, CARE, Feed the Children, the Red Cross, the Food Bank, the Drop In Centre, Leprosy Canada, the Calgary Humane Society, Ups and Downs, and more. Myra generously supported her charities until her passing. If there is one thing she would ask upon her passing, it would be to give to others who are less advantaged. She endured a tough childhood in orphanages, and due to the kind love of rare and special people, like her friend Marjorie, she was able to overcome early hardships and flourish in life. Myra and Walter attended Ascension Catholic Church since its inception and firmly held to their faith. This church is presently under renovation so her funeral mass will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects at Corpus Christi Church (404 Northmount Place NW) on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at 9:45 am. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Corpus Christi Church (404 Northmount Place NW) on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at 10:30 am. A luncheon and celebration of Myra's life will follow in the church hall. Family Graveside Service to be held at St. Anne of the Prairies Cemetery in Trochu, AB. Photos, memories and condolences may be shared with Myra's family through www.evanjstrong.com. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to one of Myra's favorite charities, or to a charity of your choice. The family wishes to thank the compassionate nurses Pechka and Cathryn on Unit 61 at the Foothills Hospital, and to the caring and kind Dr. Mintry and Dr. Weatherald. They made a very difficult and challenging time peaceful and beautiful. Arrangements in care of EVAN J. STRONG FUNERAL SERVICES. (403) 265-1199