Irene (Rene) Bernice Smelser
December 8, 1934 - August 20, 2026
In Loving Memory
Irene (Rene) Bernice Smelser
Irene (Rene) Bernice Smelser, age 91, passed away peacefully in Armstrong, BC, on August 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on December 8, 1934 to Robert and Tilda Calwell, Rene lived a life devoted to her family and friends. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert (Bob) Smelser, and loved her late sisters Roberta and Lou. Rene was a wonderful mother to Glenn Smelser (Maureen), Todd Smelser (Rosalinda) and Paul Roberts (Lisa). She was also proud of her loving grandchildren Courtney, Bonnie, Dennis, Terrilee, Terry, Rosalie, Alona, Churchill, Analou, and Maricel. And many, many more great grandchildren.
Known for her warm and calm personality, Rene enjoyed spending time with her family, and also with many lifelong neighbours and friends. She liked playing golf, and watching hockey, and baseball. But most of all, she loved Canadian curling, and could be heard from her bedroom loudly cheering for her favourite teams.
Rene had three wishes: to get a hole in one in golf; to get a Royal Flush in Vegas; and to see the Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup. She got her first two wishes, and will watch the Leafs win the Cup from Heaven, with Bob by her side. We will celebrate with you, while holding your #91 Leafs jersey, emblazoned with the Captain “C”.
A Celebration of Life was held prior to Rene’s death at home, with her immediate family. Rene chose MAID for her passing which she believed in very strongly. She was surrounded by family and love.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Rene can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation.
Arrangements entrusted to
Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-546-7237
Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services:
Leave a comment
Comments: 4
Sending love and strength to Todd and Rosalina and the rest of family and friends.
Losing a Mother is so painful but may the many memories and love you have for each other get you through this difficult and sad time.
A mother’s love is always with you!
Mike and Keiko
💕🙏
My parents, Vic and Mary Coomber lived beside Bob and Arlene for many years. They were best of friends and shared many meals together along with other neighbours. Rene was always very kind and gentle to all who knew her. Her presence gave cherished memories to many. She was a deeply loving person.
Dear Todd and Glen ,sending our deepest sympathy to all the family . Irene ( Rene} as the Luscombe neighbours called her ,have great memories of our fun dinner parties ,get togethers , and even playing baseball back in the day. Unfortunately I missed her phone call few weeks ago ,she spoke to Wayne to tell him what she decided to do ,I tried calling back with no success. Your Mom was truly a lovely ,kind , classy lady , she will be missed by all . Sincerely Marnie and Wayne Beckman
I worked with Irene at my very first job at Fosters Fashions/Alexanders in Jackson Square, Hamilton, ON.
I remember Irene as a lovely person, who was both patient and kind. I think of her every time I see ginger chocolates, as she introduced me to them as her favourites. I dislike them to this day! (lol)
I would like to extend my sympathy to Irene’s family & friends at this time of loss.