Obituary of Iris Myrtle Neufeld

In the early hours of Sunday, August 25, 2024 Iris Myrtle Neufeld (nee Brown) passed away in Regina, SK at the age of 85.  She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Donald, on July 27, 2023.  Her grief was overwhelming during her last year of life without Dad, and we are at peace knowing they are together again.

Iris was born February 23, 1939, the second of five children for Eddie and Jean Brown of Milestone.  She attended Emerald Hill and Milestone High School.  In 1957, Iris enrolled in Teachers’ College in Moose Jaw and taught at McCoy School. 

Iris met the love of her life, Donald Neufeld, when he came to their farm as a hired hand.  They married on October 7, 1961. Iris and Don always had a dream of farming and in 1967 packed up two children and their belongings and moved to Sonningdale.  In the spring of 1972, they were able to purchase their own land five miles south of Lang and returned home.

For 30 years, they farmed together.  Mom milked cows and shipped cream, grew the biggest garden ever, and worked alongside Dad the entire time.  Iris upgraded her teaching certificate and in 1978 began teaching kindergarten in Yellow Grass.  She loved all her “little people” and taught for more than 20 years. 

In 2003, they sold the farm and moved to Regina, ready for a much-deserved retirement and a new community of friends.  Never one to sit still, Iris quickly got them involved with the seniors’ groups and they travelled to bridge tournaments, enjoyed going to dances, playing cards, and more than occasionally, a trip to the Casino.

In her final days, Mom’s only wish was to be with Dad.  That wish has been granted and we are sad but grateful.  Left to cherish her memory is her son, Neil (Joanne) and Neil’s children Jenna (Cole), Denae (Kaden), and Nolan; and daughter Nora (Ian) and Nora’s children Brandi (Broden) and Evan. She is survived by her sisters WillaMae (Howard) and Donna (Gary); brother Bill (Jan); and sister-in-law Arlene; as well as numerous family members and friends.  Iris was predeceased by her brother Bernie; and brother-in-law Marvin. 

A Family Graveside Service will be held in Milestone where Mom will be laid to rest next to Dad.