Irene Mary (Thibodeau) Kind

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Irene Kind (nee Thibodeau) of Calgary, Alberta on Monday, May 16, 2022 at the age of 77.  Irene will be remembered for her most suitable last name as everything she did or said was truly “kind”.

Irene was born in Lestock, Saskatchewan, the youngest of 4 children to Laurent and Ida Thibodeau.

Irene is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Garry Kind, her three children Lance, Yvette and Tyron and her ten grandchildren, Sydni, Abbey, Jarrett (Lance); Colton, Nolan, Chase, Owen (Yvette); and Zoee, Kayla and Leah (Tyron). Irene is survived by two of her siblings, Terese O’Connor and Douglas Thibodeau (Fern).  She is predeceased by her beloved parents and sister, Lucille Guenette.  

Irene battled schizophrenia for over half of her life, often at debilitating levels but she was well for 27 years until her last few years when her suffering increased and her response to the medications decreased.  Garry was Irene’s main caregiver, be it at home or in the hospital or in a care home.  He was actively present and there for her attending to every need with a positive outlook and the belief that she would be well and come home and he saw her through to the end of her life.

Irene’s greatest achievement was the person she was inside and the way she truly cared about every person she met despite having her own constant struggles.  Irene was always smiling, giving a little laugh and having a joke to tell.  Her heart was good, her catholic faith was strong and when she said she would pray for you, she really did. 

The family wishes to thank the Carnat Centre (Sunridge Mall), a psychiatric day program that Irene attended multiple times a week for over 20 years.  Special thanks to Jackie and Dr. Hirst as well as Wafa at the Lougheed Hospital.

A CELEBRATION OF IRENE’S LIFE will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Calgary on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at 1:00 PM.  Reception (with light lunch) to follow in the Hall next door.  Please text 403-630-2228 if you plan to attend. 

In lieu of flowers please take the time to do a random act of “Irene KINDness” or show support to someone you know that may be struggling with mental wellness or life in general; help someone who needs it in Irene’s honor.