Obituary of Annette Kilrea (nee Nooyen)

May 10, 1954 - June 20, 2024 

Annette was dealt a horrible hand that she faced with admirable courage and strength. She gracefully struggled for 3 months with a violent and relentless cancer diagnosis. Daughter to Harry and Dora Nooyen, she grew up a dairy farm girl in Metcalfe, Ontario. She doted on her brothers Peter (Louisette Girault) and Paul (Cathy Clement). She leaves behind her loving husband, Steven whom she met and enjoyed a wonderful 30 years with. They enjoyed sports, theatre, traveling to many beautiful, both sunny and a historic places, often in the company of friends. Some became very special, often met by Annette recruiting “golf buddies” for Steve in resort laundry rooms via their wives or friends, and many other more local friends remain.

Family was everything to her, hosting special gatherings for everyone with her own inimitable style and flair.

If you were a nephew (Craig/Stephanie, Curtis/Emily, Derek, Brett) or a neice (Megan/Tyler), Jacqueline, a great niece (Andie) or great nephew (Austin, Harry, Colin) you were loved and your life was enthusiastically followed from the sports played to birthdays, activities and with bursting pride for all the accomplishments.

She took naturally, with innate patience, understanding and love for her 2 stepchildren, Chris and Cara (Chawn Vezina).

As well, her grandchildren, Jason, Mikaella and Grayer held a special place for her having been there from the start and seeing them grow and build that relationship.

Annette absolutely loved her hairdressing career of over 45 years and treasured her clients of whom so many became lifelong friends. Many will say she had a “touch” that few people have.

In retirement she never stopped being active in her cards, music, bingo, dinners and parties. She had a knack for bringing people together.

All in all, a terrific daughter, the best wife, sister, aunt, stepmother, niece, cousin, “OMA”, and if she was one to you, an incredibly loyal friend.

Thanks to the Doctors and nurses and all who cared for her at The General Hospital, both in ICU, and on the 6th floor.

Family and friends may visit at the Pinecrest Visitation Centre, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held at the Pinecrest Remembrance Chapel on Thursday, July 4, 2024 at 11:00 am. Reception to follow.