Obituary of Irene May Ashcroft

It is with deep sadness that the family of Irene Ashcroft announces her passing on October 7, 2025, in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Irene was born in Dinnington, Yorks, England, in 1930. She met her husband, Philip at Physiotherapy School in Leeds, England, and they married in 1952. Soon after the family grew to 4 with the birth of their daughters, Lynn Douglas (Ottawa), and Diane Martinson (Rusagonis).

The family emigrated to Vancouver in 1959, and subsequently moved to HMCS Cornwallis, NS, and then to Ottawa before retiring to Fredericton. Irene worked as a physiotherapist wherever she lived, until her retirement. She is survived by her two daughters, Lynn (Robert), and Diane (Dale), her four grandchildren, Cassandra (Matt), Jennifer (Glen), Amie, and Kyle (Melissa), and four great-grandchildren, Levi, Ava, Charlie, and Sloane.

Irene was a quiet, strong lady who lived for her family. She showed strength, courage, conviction, and passion throughout her life. Her resilience and persistence inspired the family greatly. She was a “quiet” feminist, a trailblazer - a woman who let her actions speak louder than her words, breaking every barrier as if it never even existed. She did this boldly, but with pure grace.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Diane, and Irene’s dedicated caregiver, Anne Comeau, for the wonderful care they gave Irene as she progressed with her dementia.

In accordance with Irene’s wishes there will be no visitation or funeral. Irene will rest with her husband, Philip at the Oromocto Pioneer Gardens Cemetery, where they will dance forever in the old-fashioned way.

For those who wish, donations in Irene’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.