Wife, Mum, Mother-in-law, Nana, Sister, “My Auntie Rene”, second-mother to a select few, faithful friend to many, “The older one is the better cooker”, baker, wedding cake decorator, knitter, seamstress, needle worker, gardener, flower arranger, water colour artist, hostess with an open door and heart, wonderful quirky sense of humour, chorister, world traveler, whilst being curious, intelligent, compassionate, and courageous with a strong heart both in body and character.
Born is Banstead, Surrey, England on July 9, 1927 and passed peacefully in Birr, Ontario on February 1, 2022. Rene married Derek Singleton in Banstead, on May 26, 1945, after which both returned to Service a few days later. In 1957, they immigrated to Canada with David, 10, John, 4. They built a life in Petrolia, Ontario and Karen joined the family in 1965. They remained in Petrolia until retirement to Dyers Bay in 1990. They had enjoyed 51 years of wedded adventure until Derek passed on July 6, 1996.
Rene is missed by her family; children David (2021) (Laurena), John (Charlotte), Karen (Peter), and her grandchildren Laura (Ron), Michael (Ruby Anne), Sarah (Dan); Dawn (Scott), Darcy (Anne); Mattias, Micah; and great grandchildren Emily, Nicholas and Taylor.
A memorial service will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 223 Main Street, LUCAN on July 9, 2022, Renes’ 95th birthday at 3 PM. Stream the service live via ZOOM at https://zoom.us/j/95210835695
Donations can be made in memory of Rene to the Anglican Church of Canada’s, Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund.
In keeping with Rene’s love for gardening, consider planting a rose bush in your own garden.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Mary Kathryn & Jim Winder
Dear Karen and family – John and family
Rene was a very faithful member of Christ Anglican Church Petrolia. She was a
Member of the church choir for many years -her gown is still hanging in the closet . Both Derek and Rene were very good friends. Karen and John we are so sorry we are unable to attend The service on Saturday . Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family .
Love and Hugs to all
Carla Gauthier
We hope we are among the select few as we have always held her close in our hearts as a second Mum. Oh what she put up with when we were high school seniors! She would always have a smile on her face and a cheery attitude that brought a sense of hope and happiness to all she knew. God speed, she is with Derek once again. Xox
Carol Whiteford
What a beautiful picture and wonderful tributes to one amazing lady! I always looked forward to picking your Mom up to go to the Day Center and we shared many laughs as she reminisced about days gone by, may she rest in peace and your beautiful memories help ease the pain! Carol
Nancy Hibbert
My condolencs to the Singleton Family for the loss of Rene.Your Mom and Dad were friends of my Mother-inlaw Evelyn Hibbert.Your Dad used to do odd jobs for her.My husband Jim and I rented a house across the street from them on Florence Ave. in Petrolia.You were just young kids then.You were a great family.Cherish your memories and the good times. Nancy Hibbert
Krista Beckett
There are friends in life that show us the difference that Christ makes, that extend to others the fruit of the spirit and the power of His grace. Your mom was gentle and kind and thankful for her life. What a treasure to have her in our hearts.
Carol Arthur
My darling Auntie Rene was my confidant, fellow conspirator and mentor.
I always looked to her for no nonsense advice and I have the honour of being reminded on many occasions by the lady herself, that we had similar values, morals and most importantly, sense of humour.
I will pick up that mantle and carry her spirit with me at all times – looking for the best in people and ensuring everyone is treated equally. I will miss her laughter and smile, but she will forever be My Auntie Rene.
Bill and Shirley Bannerman
Our sympathy to Karen, Peter , Matthias and Michael. We loved your mom , grandma and her bubbly and optimistic personality. God gave her a long and meaningful life. We thank Him.
Helen Gill
Such wonderful memories of Auntie Rene, many great summer holiday times shared together. Will always remember our amazing trip across Canada and fun times on the beach in Devon when Karen and I were young. Auntie Rene was a lovely lady with a big heart and she will be missed. Sending love, thoughts and prayers from us all here, Helen & Martin, Sophie and Ben, James and Tony xx
Darleen and Brian Carter
What an amazing mom you had Karen! If I could say one thing about Irene, it would be there is not one thing she could not do! When there was a task placed in front of her no matter how small or how big she would take the challenge and see it through. She had a huge heart to love others! I will cherish her stories for I learned so much about her as she would share them. As you were with her on her send off to be with the Lord you kept such good care of her! It was lovely to see! That is a testimony of how the exchange of love between mother and daughter! I will continue to pray for all of you, Peter, Matthias and Micah! May the Shalom of the Lord be your comfort!
Carla and Bill Gauthier
What a big heart and endearing spirit your Mum had! She always had a smile and a story to tell, and she will be dearly missed, Karen. Love to you, Peter, Mattias and Micah, who will miss her most. What a gift to spend time with her right up until the end.
Jan Palmer
My Auntie Rene and my Mum’s sister in law,. We spent a wonderful two weeks with Rene and Derek and Karen in Petrolia, in 1987. I remember them before they emigrated to Canada when I was small. Following their departure we communicated regularly by letter. Mum wrote to them, and so did Grandad but my Uncle Derek always started letters and then Rene finished and posted them ! And Rene was an absolute rock when Grandad Singleton died coming over to the UK and tackling the difficult task of clearing out the home.
RIP Rene.
Jane Thomson
We have so many fond memories of time spent with your Mom she was a delight to know.
Sending you all our thoughts and prayers during this sad time. Jane and Dave Thomson
Don And Wendy Hiscox
Praying for you and your family during this time of loss
Eric and Sue Gerber
We are better for having known her. She was always so joyful, and it was so nice to hear her sing at church.
Ruth Smith Meyer
Irene was an absolute delight to me as I read to her at the Day Centre. I can only imagine how many lives she touched in a similar way. Memories of her will always warm my heart. My prayaers to you, her family who will miss her most.
Rob Woudwyk
Incredible woman. Some of the best summers of my life.
All the love from Liz, Rob and Dez.
Sharon and Will Martin
What a lady, what a legacy! Karen and Peter and boys, may God comfort you during the times you miss Mum or Gramma, and give you joy as you remember her!