Remembering Irene Mathyssen
From the Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation: Remembering Irene Mathyssen
Jane Sims: Irene Mathyssen leaves a legacy of advocacy in fight for social justice
Message from Lindsay Mathyssen:
It is with deep sadness and a broken heart that I mourn the passing of my beloved mother, Irene Mathyssen.
My mom was so much more than a mother. She was my inspiration, our family’s rock, and a beacon of hope. She was someone I looked up to, someone who helped guide me through life, and someone whose strength and determination inspired me in ways words can never fully express.
Her presence gave us strength, her love gave us comfort, and her belief in what was possible gave us hope, even during the most difficult times.
To Londoners and Canadians, she was known for her public service, her dedication to her community, and her commitment to the people and causes she believed in. Behind all that she accomplished was the woman who shaped my life, whose example helped define who I am, and whose love will remain with me forever.
I also want to recognize my dad, Keith Mathyssen, who loved her deeply and stood by her side throughout her life and her political career. His unwavering love, partnership, and support was a foundational part of her journey. Together, they shared a beautiful life and a bond that will always be part of our family’s story.
Losing Mom leaves an emptiness that words cannot begin to describe. Her passing will leave us changed, but I know that the values she instilled in us, the example she set, and the love she gave so freely will continue to guide us. Her legacy is not only in what she accomplished, but in the lives she touched and the strength she gave to those fortunate enough to know her.
She believed that our responsibility is to leave this world a better place than we found it. That belief is part of her legacy, and I will do my best to honour it throughout my life.
I love you so much mom. You will always be remembered. And your legacy of making this world a better place will live on.
Lindsay
