It is with saddened hearts we announce the passing of a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend Lillian Merle Mortenson-Irving from Naicam, Saskatchewan on Sunday, December 8, 2019. She has gone to her eternal home in heaven after 93 years of a fulfilling wonderful life. Merle was born August 21, 1926 on a farm southeast of Spalding, Saskatchewan. She was the second youngest of 5 girls and knew what hard work entailed. She loved Family moments, especially dinners with family and friends, fishing, singing, dancing, flowers, and gardening. She strongly believed in the Lord and letting him guide her life. She married Ardien Mortenson on October 27, 1947. They shared 42 happy years with their 4 children Arlene, Larry, Brian, and Ron until his passing February 11, 1989. Merle worked in the Spalding Red & White store for approximately 3 years, and a cook at the Spalding Hospital for 5 years. She then worked extensive hours on the farm and countless hours of volunteer work. Merle then found the second love of her life and married John Irving on July 15, 1995. They shared many hours fishing, dancing and being part of the community. Merle moved to Chateau Providence in St Brieux, Saskatchewan on April 10, 2017 where she had excellent care. Merle was predeceased by her first husband Ardien Mortenson, her son Larry Mortenson and his wife Bev (Berggren) Mortensen, grandson in law Kevin Hoskins, granddaughter Brianna Mortenson, her parents Arthur Hillcox and Lillian Helling, and her sisters Joyce McPherson, Margaret Hills, Clara Radke, and Myrtle Ballard. Merle is survived by her husband John Irving, 3 children Arlene Corneau, Brian Mortenson (Shelly), Ron Mortenson (Linda), 13 grandchildren Colin Corneau (Sujitra Supachokjaroensin ), Wendy Hoskins, Sherry Corneau, Tracie (Chad) Apostle, Kelley (Brian) Kenwood, Christie (Dan) Lemko, Kent (Randi) Mortenson, Jaylene (Conrad) Andres, Gina Mortenson, Laura Mortenson, Kaylea Mortenson, Spencer Mortenson (Amiee Schultz), Jennifer Mortenson. 16 great grand grandchildren Hayden, Brooklyn, Easton, Ryan, Colton, Hunter, Brett, Lindsey, Liv, Brie, Nash, Elyse, Hudson, Ava, Mila, Liam and 1 great great granddaughter Kaydence. Message from Merle “Work Hard, Let the Lord guide you. Love each other and others, teach your children to walk with Jesus”