Irene Form

Irene Form passed away peacefully in Arborfield, Saskatchewan, on Christmas morning at 7:00 a.m.

Born on August 19, 1942, in Canora, Saskatchewan, Irene was the daughter of Peter Popoff and Ann Popoff ( nee Chernenkoff). Growing up with her sister, Olga, Irene developed an early independence and a hunger for adventure. Whether it was flying across the country in the 1960s to drive a new car home or moving her life to the farthest reaches of the Canadian North, Irene lived a full life.

In 1966, Irene married Bryant Bond and welcomed her daughter, Tracy. Known for many years as Irene Bond, she was a dedicated teacher whose career was a map of the West and the North. She taught in Pennant and Lucky Lake, SK, and Dawson Creek, B.C., before spending many years in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Her time in Rankin Inlet, Iqaluit, Fort Simpson, and Hay River was a defining chapter of her life—one she embraced with a sense of adventure.

While life later led her on a different path, Irene eventually found a beautiful "full circle" happiness when she married her high school sweetheart, Garry Form. When not working they spent their time at auctions where they found many, many treasures!

Music and reading were Irene's constant companions. She started with the accordion as a young woman before moving to the piano, which she played by ear. She also mastered the flute and, showcasing her "never stop learning" attitude, took up the bass guitar at the age of 70. Her love of classical music guided her travels to Italy, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Switzerland, England, and a meaningful river cruise through Russia to explore her heritage. She had some grand stories, including her famous invitation to Elvis Presley’s private suite in Las Vegas in the late 1970s.

In her later years, Irene and Garry traveled around in their customized Boler camper, seeking out music festivals and visiting family. They also spent time visiting polar bears in Churchill, and touring the East and West Coasts of Canada/US and the far north.

Irene will be remembered for her deep love of animals—especially cats.

Irene was preceded in death by Stepson Corey and Husband Garry Form and is survived by her daughter, Tracy Bond (Mark Dekker); her step children Daryn Form (Nicole) and their children Noah and James; Kristi Dennison (Darren) and their children Rydleigh, Sawyer, and Bryden. Her sister, Olga Coull (Nee Popoff); and her niece, Adele Purves-Smith.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Gail and Dennis Turner of Arborfield. More than just neighbours, they are "adopted family" whose tireless care and friendship were critical to both Irene and Garry during their illnesses. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

Thank you to the staff at Arborfield Special Care Lodge for all the kindness and care they showed to Irene.

At Irene’s request, no formal funeral service will be held. For those who wish to honour her memory, donations may be made in Irene’s name to any local animal rescue—a gesture she would have truly loved.

Martens Warman Funeral home is honoured to be entrusted with the care and arrangements for Irene Form.