IRENE EZERGAILIS née Petriceks November, 17, 1927 February 3, 2022
We are saddened to announce the passing of Irene Ezergailis at Kensington Gardens, peacefully, with family by her side. Beloved wife of the late Janis Ezergailis, wonderful mother of Ilze (James Black), Juris and Astrida. Doting grandmother of Toms, Mara and Emma Black. Cherished sister of the late Janis, Ludmila and Juris Petriceks. Fondly remembered by nieces, nephews and extended family in Canada, the U.S., Latvia and Spain. In 1944, Irene and her family fled their beloved home in Latvia in advance of the Soviet Army. A difficult journey with multiple stops led them to a displaced persons camp in Germany. Her family found refuge in the United States through the generous sponsorship of several West Virginia families. Irene worked as a governess briefly and then pursued studies at the Allegheny General Hospital School of Nursing in Pittsburgh. She worked both at New York Presbyterian and Stanford Medical Centre and was offered supervisory positions in both, which she declined, preferring direct patient care. She met Janis at a Latvian Mixer in Toronto. Irene and Janis enjoyed many happy years together raising 3 children. She spent countless hours volunteering in the Latvian Community, Churches-on-the-Hill Food bank and caring for her grandchildren. She is dearly missed. A family visitation and service will be held on February 5 at 2 p.m. at York Cemetery Funeral Centre. Please contact family for a Zoom link. A celebration of life will be held in the warmer months when we can all gather together. Sincerest gratitude to the many kind and dedicated caregivers at Kensington Gardens. Donations in Irene’s memory may be made to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. Information for donating in Canada can be found on their website