Rene’s journey began on a farm, on November 19, 1922, with Mrs. Schulstad as midwife.
She was the fifth of eight children born to Robert and Susan Bullick. They all grew up on that Bullick homestead a few miles east of Coronation, going to the Pleasant Heights School to around grade 8.
Mom got a job in Coronation at the post office and was paid $10.00 per month. She started at 6:30 a.m. and worked until 7:00 p.m. and got every other weekend off.
Rene met Cyril around 1937/38. They liked going to shows and dances when they could afford it. They were married in 1942 and lived only a few miles from her parents’ farm in a two room shack that was drafty and cold. The only transportation was a team and cutter.
Bob was born in 1943, Carol in 1944, Linda in 1946. Some of these years were pretty slim but food was always on the table. Rene would drive the truck, tractor, milk cows, etc. to help out.
Just when she thought she was done raising a family, Randy came along in March 1956.
In 1970 they sold their farm and moved to Coronation, built a new house and had Christmas in their new home with all the family.
In the summer of 1971 they went to England and Europe on a trip with friends and that fall became snow birds for about 20 years.
On one of the trips to Arizona, Mom took some painting lessons. A few months later her brushes came alive on canvas, then branched out to cover cream cans, saws of all kinds, horns, fungus, feathers, irons, jugs, eggs, satellite dishes, and the list went on.
News of her talent spread by word of mouth and requests came in faster than she could paint them.
She took great pride and satisfaction in taking a snapshot and making it into a beautiful work of art for us to cherish forever. Looking at her art, we can still see her warm and caring smile.
While in Coronation, Mom was involved with the Sunshine Club, Royal Purple, Condo Board, Farmers’ Market, Ag. Society, Coronation Golf Club, Cake Decorating, and ceramics.
Cyril and Rene celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1992. They spent their summers playing golf, fishing and going to Farmers’ markets. A couple of times they spent a month south with Bill and Bubbles.
In 2002, Mom had a mild heart attack that slowed her down a bit. Cyril’s health started to fail, requiring more care from Mom who never complained at all.
On April 2, 2007 Cyril passed away just before they were to move into the condo.
After some delays, Rene moved into the condo in the fall of 2008. She thoroughly enjoyed her new home, and even more when her friendly neighbours were able to move in.
Volunteer work with the Sunshine Club kept her busy, as well as finding time to visit and paint. Her door was always open to everyone, with a warm smile and “Come on in for tea and something to eat”.
In the later part of 2010, Mom wasn’t feeling well and went in for a check-up. The news was not good. Between the doctors and nurses and Mom’s fighting spirit, she rallied and was home for Christmas.
Everyone was told, in no uncertain terms, that all scheduled trips were not to be cancelled. Cuba, Virgin Islands, Dominican, Halifax and BC all came to pass with Mom still here.
She spent about a month and a half at home before going back to the hospital on February 5.
Her Earthly journey ended shortly after noon on March 3 with Carol, Linda and Bubbles at her side.
Moments later, the sun came out and they all observed a bright ray of sunlight coming through the window to shine on her as her soul was on its way to heaven.
She leaves to mourn her passing her four children, Bob (Brenda) Lenton, Carol Boehk, Linda (Ray) Bossert and Randy (Debbie) Lenton
Eleven grandchildren, Blair (Joanne) Lenton, Lori Lenton, Brad (Trina) Lenton, Blaine (Linda) Welsh, Darcy (Michelle) Welsh, Delvin (Jill) Bossert, Kevin (Val) Bossert, Melanie (Buzz) Bisson, Logan (Dawna) Lenton, Lance (Caryn) Lenton Selena (Steve) Arsenault.
Eighteen great-grandchildren, Mackenzie and Connor Lenton, Teakin, Shallon and Rayna Welsh, Markie (Fiancé, Adrian), Karly, Teesha, Nicala and Zac Bossert, Skyler and Kelton Bossert, Darby, Colby and Kianna Bisson, Owen Lenton, Hailey and Austin Arsenault.
Her siblings, Bill (Bubbles) Bullick, Ted (Thelma) Bullick and Joyce (Tom) Wraight; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.
Rene was predeceased by her parents, mother-in-law and father-in-law, husband Cyril, brothers, Howard and Stan, sisters, Gladys and Mabel, numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
Mrs. Lenton, Irene, Rene, Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma and Super Grandma… we will all miss your warm smile, helping hand, and loving heart.
The funeral service in honour of Irene Lenton was held on Wednesday, March 9, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Coronation Community Centre, Coronation, Alberta, with Reverend Sue Hertell officiating.
Linda Schetzsle played for the congregational hymns, “In The Garden”, and “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry”.
The Trinity United Church Choir sang “On Eagles’ Wings”. Steve Arsenault sang “You’re Flying On Your Own” and “Tell Me Mother”.
Oldest Grandson Blaine Welsh shared the eulogy. The family shared some fond memories and poems. There was also a video tribute during the service.
Urn Bearers were Rene’s two daughters, Carol Boehk and Linda Bossert.
Honorary Pallbearers were “All of Rene’s family and friends”.
Lunch and fellowship was held in the Community Centre which was prepared and served by the Sunshine Club.
Memorial donations may be made in Rene’s honour to the Coronation Hospital Foundation, Home Away From Home Room, Mail Bag 500, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0, STARS, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Box 570, Calgary, AB, T2E 8M7 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com
Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements. 403-578-2928. “Knowledge, Experience And Professionalism With A Personal Touch”
