It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ione Carlson. She passed peacefully surrounded by family at Prairie Lake Hospice, on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at the age of 85 years.

Ione was born in Benito, MB, on August 30, 1939. Her early years were spent on a farm near Bowsman, MB, with her mother, father, and brother. The family moved to Ladysmith, BC, when her father got sick, and this is where Ione spent her school aged years. She graduated in 1957, and pursued her hair dressing license in Vancouver, BC. She worked at the Ladysmith Hair Salon until she sadly had to quit due to health issues from the perm solution. Her trademark ability to make the best of any situation helped her pivot and enroll in secretarial school. She worked for a medical record keeping company and later the high school in Ladysmith upon meeting the love of her life, Ivor Carlson. They were married on October 7, 1961, and welcomed their first child, Vickie, a year later. Ione happily became a stay-at-home mom and had three more children: Kellie, Carrie, and Derek.

Once all the kids were in school, Ione began working at the Bank of Montreal in Calgary, AB. She transferred to Dawson Creek (1978) and later Grande Prairie (1985) where she retired after 25 years. She then worked full time at Swan City Bingo Hall after working both jobs. She developed a close bond with the Wong family (owners) and worked there until 2004. Above all, however, Ione was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Her retirement years were spent golfing with her husband, being her grandchildren’s biggest fan in all their activities, enjoying daily walks and exercise, hosting family celebrations, and catching up with friends over a coffee at A&W, the mall, or Tim Horton’s.

Starting in January 2024, Ione faced her toughest battle yet with immeasurable strength, grace and dignity. Her family, close friends, and healthcare workers were in awe of her commitment to maintaining her independence and positive spirit. She was so grateful for those who supported this journey. Especially the staff at Prairie Lake Hospice who helped her make her last three months very meaningful. Ione’s selflessness, humble strength, endless kindness and compassion, enduring humor and positivity and loving nature were admired by all who knew her. She enjoyed golfing, Tai Chi, crocheting, reading, puzzles, cooking and baking. Ione was happiest when surrounded by those she loved and who loved her. She found contentment by supporting the people closest to her in many different ways.

Her remarkable spirit will live on through her family, her children: Vickie (Terry) Webb, Kellie Carlson, Carrie Carlson, and Derek (Toby) Carlson; her son-in-law Doug Stromberg; as well as her grandchildren: Cody and Zach Cowan, MaCall Webb, Cassidy, Cade and Camryn Stromberg, and Jack and Elle Carlson.

She was predeceased by her husband Ivor Carlson; parents Elizabeth Ulaga and Frederick Herbert; brother John Herbert; as well as granddaughter, Courtney Webb.

Ione’s Celebration of Life will be held in January at Oliver’s Funeral Home. A private graveside service to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to Prairie Lakes Hospice (11460 104 Ave., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 3G9). Ione’s family cannot thank the Prairie Lake Hospice staff enough for all the love, care, and comfort they provided,

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.oliversfuneralhome.com.