On Thursday January 19, 2023 Irene Heggs, (nee Koenning) passed away at the age of 85 at the Bassano Hospital, after a long and very courageous battle with Alzheimer's Disease.  Her passing was peaceful as she was surrounded by her loving family and given exceptional care and compassion by all the staff at the Bassano Hospital.  Words cannot express our deepest gratitude. Mom was born October 12, 1937, to John and Mary Koenning in Dana, Saskatchewan. She has four brothers: Tony, Johnny, Benny, Eddie and three sisters: Anne, Kay, Agnes. Mom married Dad (Herbert William Heggs) on July 30, 1960 in Calgary, Alberta.  Soon after they relocated to Bassano, to start a business and raise their children.  There are four of us: Wanda (Tony), Brenda (Don), Cindee (Dan) and Darcy (Linda).  For each of us she was the first heartbeat we ever felt, the first face we ever saw, the first voice we ever heard, the first love we ever had and her love was unconditional.  There are 7 grandchildren: Koryn, Jayden, Bailey, Brooke, Brody, Shelby and Devon. Each one exceptionally loved and treasured.  Mom will be remembered fondly by her many friends and relatives.  She was hardworking, incredibly quick witted, intelligent, artistic, stunningly beautiful and the absolute life of the party.  She loved to laugh, she loved to sing, she loved to dance, she loved music.  Mom lived life to the fullest!  She loved golf, her stories (The Young and the Restless), a glass of white wine or perhaps a beer. She loved to gamble at the casino, and we often heard of her winnings and never her losses.  Mom's favorite flower was roses, her favorite color was dusty rose, her favorite song was 'Rose Colored Glasses' and her favorite chocolates were maraschino cherries.  With unbelievable courage, strength and dignity mom battled Alzheimer's disease.  Her favorite saying was "Make everything count".  She has been a wonderful wife, amazing mother, outstanding grandmother, loyal friend to many and a role model for us all. We will never forget you or stop loving you.  The family will be holding a Celebration of Life for Irene (to be announced) and they ask that in lieu of flowers a donation can be made directly to The Bassano District Health Foundation, Box 120, Bassano, Alberta   T0J 0B0.

Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at

Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematorium, Brooks