Karen Ileen Zegers Gladding

A fighter until the very end, Ileen Gladding passed away Sunday September 22nd, 2019, surrounded by love at Hospice Wellington in Guelph. Ileen was a loving and dedicated mother to Lindsay Gladding, Adam (Ly Chhun) Gladding and Bethany (Rob) Beech. She found immense love and joy in her position as Grana to her five grandchildren, William, Charlotte, George, Lilian and Theodore. Ileen was the beloved daughter of John and Patricia (Carroll) Zegers, and the dear sister of Sharon, Connie and David.

Ileen was a caregiver at heart, with a generous spirit. She was always concerned about the well being of others, ready with a cup of hot tea, notes of encouragement or homemade cupcakes. Ileen was never one to shy away from a challenge and could often be found juggling multiple jobs, continuing education and medical treatments, while somehow squeezing in time for friends and to sing with the Grand Philharmonic Choir.

As a nurse for 25 years Ileen touched the lives of countless people; from her early days caring for the elderly, to supporting mothers through childbirth, to educating and inspiring excellence as an educator and change specialist. She was especially proud of completing her Masters of Nursing degree and of her leadership and contribution to her organizations attainment of Baby Friendly Initiative designation. She will be greatly missed by her friends and colleagues at Grand River Hospital and Trillium Health Partners.

Private cremation has taken place. The family will receive their friends at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph on Sunday, September 29, 2019 from 1-2 p.m. A celebration of Ileen's life will be held in the chapel at 2 p.m. with a reception to follow in the funeral home Fellowship Lounge. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Grand Philharmonic Choir or to World Vision Canada (Raw Hope Program) would be appreciated. Donation cards are available at the funeral home (519-821-5077) or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com