Obituary of Mary "Aileen" O'Riordan

Mary Aileen O'Riordan, born July 10, 1930 to Mary Agnes Shea (nee) and Fredrick Alexander O'Riordan passed away on November 9, 2015 at the age of 85 years. Aileen, the ninth of ten children, was predeceased by her parents, and her siblings: Rita Marie, Thomas Gerald (Tom), Robert Donald (Bob), John Patrick (Pat), Fredrick Joseph (Bitz), Paul Shea, James Aloysius (Jim) and Anne Mary Margaret (Anna) McGuiness. She is survived by her older sister Marie Patricia McKinnon, her sisters-in-law, Beverley O'Riordan and Marion O'Riordan, and most of her nieces, nephews and their children. Born with bilateral congenital hip dislocation, Aileen subsequently endured 20+ major hip surgeries and rehabilitation treatments. Throughout her life, Aileen modeled strength of character, a good sense of humor, endurance of almost endless pain, and grace in asking for and accepting help. Aileen was defined by her infinite love of family and loyal friendships. Aileen dearly loved her brothers, sisters and sisters-in-law, missing them terribly when they moved, vacationed or died. Each family member played an important role in ensuring her life had meaning, opportunities and laughter. Her lifelong friendships with Joyce Wilcox, Dorothy Wilcox-Smith and Kay Brown brought her companionship, laughter and support. Aileen appreciated nice things and created beauty in her immediate surroundings. She collected pinwheel crystal, Hummel figurines and Royal Dalton that she would have on display for her enjoyment. She had lots of help shopping for wonderful clothing and furnishings. She also enjoyed the classic music and movies of the 40's, 50's and 60's. Aileen was also blessed with being able to travel to some exciting destinations with the companionship of family members. She went on an Alaskan cruise, and to Las Vegas, Hawaii and Toronto for vacations. She loved being part of something exciting with the safety and support of trusted family members. Aileen will be remembered for her commonly known, and endearing idiosyncrasies: • Her lifelong lament of "I'm not hungry" whenever offered food • Being a night owl and wanting to sleep half the day away, getting up at noon • Her saying that "Bailey's improves coffee" • Her drinking coffee all day and half the night • Her frequent use of the phrase "you little buggar" • Her delivery of speech and witty humor Aileen mellowed over time - showing more of her appreciation for all that was being and what had been done for her. She said often, and without prompting, "I love you"; she was generous in her compliments; and she was so very appreciative of every act of assistance. Aileen has been released from a life of physical pain, to join her loving parents, beloved siblings and much loved in-laws. She will be missed until we see her again. Mass of the Resurrection was celebrated on Saturday December 19, 2015 at 1:00 pm from St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church with Rev. Father Larry Pederson as celebrant. If friends so desire memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the charity of your choice.