In loving memory of Terry Kirwan
Terry passed away peacefully on March 13, 2024 at the age of 86.
Survived by his loving wife of 59 years Muriel (nee Gosselin), his daughters Carolynn Lanthier (John), Jane Orser (Ron) and his son Roderick (Candy).
Beloved Poppa and Grandpa to Hannah, Evan, Jack, Carter, Shawn, Sarah, Charlotte & Lucas.
Born on May 2, 1937 in Toronto, ON to John Kirwan (predeceased) and Grace Ester Kirwan (nee Shaw) (predeceased). He spent the early days of his life on the family homestead in Spring Creek (Markstay) with his parents, his Aunt Muriel Shaw, his Uncle Philip & Aunt Ruth Shaw and his three cousins, Joe Shaw, Buck Shaw and Margie Guilbeault (Shaw), (all predeceased). He moved to Wahnapitae in his early teens, eventually building his own home on the river and remaining a proud resident for over 70 years.
He learned at a very young age the value of hard work, integrity and a quality education, traits which he instilled in his children and grandchildren. Some of Terry’s first jobs while in school included working at a sawmill and driving a truck. After graduating he joined Inco Exploration in search of adventure living in various remote mining camps throughout Northern Canada. A true “jack of all trades” and aspiring entrepreneur, he later owned and operated an automotive service station in Garson as well as a construction business, where he worked alongside his father. Terry remained active in the mining exploration industry until his retirement.
Terry loved being outdoors. Some of his fondest memories were spending time with his family at camp in West Arm. His favourite activities included, boating, watersports, snowmobiling and hunting with friends and family.
Always a prolific storyteller, Terry enjoyed recounting his many adventures to whomever he met, and he was never shy to retell them if he had a repeat audience. Often starting with “Have I ever told you about the time…”, he would keep his audience’s attention for hours on end. He would recount tales of his time working in Northern Manitoba, flying planes around Ottawa, racing snowmobiles in winter carnivals, and waterskiing in Shebandowan. Also an avid history buff, Terry would teach others about the early days of mining and logging in Sudbury and Northern Ontario. Every story was filled with “Terry-isms” that left people in stitches and sometimes scratching their heads wondering where he conjured up his unique expressions.
Terry was a man with a kind heart who would gladly give the shirt off his back to someone less fortunate. Around the holidays, Terry and Muriel would deliver fully prepared turkey dinners, to those who would otherwise not have had a festive meal.
He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
A special thanks to his extended family, close friends and neighbours, all of whom supported him during the latter years of his life.
A celebration of life will be held later in the summer. His final resting place will be at the Pinehill Cemetery in Markstay, ON surrounded by his parents, his aunts and uncles.
Arrangements entrusted to the Jackson and Barnard Funeral Home. www.lougheedsfuneralhome.com