John IRWIN

Irwin, John After a full and accomplished Life, in his 93rd year, John Irwin died on Sunday, January 20, 2008. His presence and spirit will live on with his devoted family and many friends. Born in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, England, in 1915, John was raised on Walney Island, on the southern coast of Cumbria. He began a career in journalism with The Northwestern Daily Mail and later with the New Statesman in Calcutta where he was chief reporter. In World War II, he served as a lieutenant-colonel in army intelligence in North Africa. Upon his arrival in Canada in 1952, John resumed his career in journalism, first with Saturday Night magazine, then with Maclean's and finally as associate editor with the Financial Post. He Married Norah Joslin Brown in 1955. Together they enjoyed a loving and eventful 40 years of marriage. Norah died in 2006. Both Norah and John were lifetime supporters of the arts. As such, John served as president and became a life member of the Arts and Letters Club of Toronto. He was also president of the St. George's Society, and a member of the Royal Commonwealth Society, the Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem and the Royal Canadian Military Institute, Imperial Officers Association of Canada and the 78th Fraser Highlanders. In1967 he received Canada's Centennial medal. He is survived by his sister, Kathleen (Kate) Humphreys, and his nephew Keith Humphreys and family in Newcastle, England. A service of remembrance will be held in Toronto in spring, 2008. Remembrances may be made to the Toronto Grace Foundation, 650 Church Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 2G5. The family invites you to sign the Memorial Tribute Book at www.obituariestoday.com Some shout and sing And are thus remembered For a time. Others with quiet dignity Creep into hearts and minds To remain forever. Published in the National Post from 1/21/2008 - 1/22/2008.