Obituary of Irene Katherine Rose

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Irene Katherine Rose (nee Hiuser). A wonderful wife, mother, Nana, sister, aunt and friend.

Irene passed peacefully on Friday, August 14, 2026, at The Village of Winston Park LTC. Devoted and beloved wife of the late Sidney Rose and Norman J. Bortz. Loving mother of Norman (Bruce) & Nancy, Jack & Kay. Cherished Nana to Jane & Brad, Kim, John & Karen, Ryan & Jenn, Carrie & Noel, and Great Nana to Sidney, Cassidy, Jackie, Benton, James, Amy, Jack, Brooke, Caleb & Noelle.

Born in Kitchener, Waterloo, Irene loved spending time in her beautiful garden and poured her artistic abilities into creating stunning paintings for her loving family.

Irene will be remembered for her infectious laugh, beautiful smile, kind heart, and gentle nature. Irene’s ability to make everyone around her feel loved and cherished will be greatly missed by those she loved deeply.

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., followed by a reception in the Fireside Reception Room from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Private graveside service to take place at a later date. Irene will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery in Kitchener.

Flowers will be graciously accepted. Condolences for the family or donations to St. Andrews Presbyterian Church (Kitchener) can be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com.

When I Am Gone

When I am gone, release me, let me go.
I have so many things to see and do.

You must not tie yourself to me with tears.
Be happy we had so many years.
I give you my love, and you can only guess
How much you gave me of happiness.

I thank you for the love you all have shown,
But now it's time I travelled alone.
So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must,
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It is only for awhile that we must part,
So bless the memories within your heart.
I won't be far away, for life goes on,
So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near
And if you listen with all your heart, you'll hear
All of my love around you, soft and clear.

And then when you must come this way alone,
I'll be there to greet you with a "Welcome Home".

-Anonymous