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Iona Estelle Sloan
15-Apr-1943 — 15-Dec-2025
Obituary Overview
In Loving Memory
Iona Estelle Sloan passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. Born on April 15, 1943, in Vinton, Quebec, Iona was predeceased by her parents, Austin Sloan and Bridget Mulvey, and by her siblings Margaret Lorna, Barbara Ann.
She lived an extraordinary life marked by generosity, optimism, and a deep love for people.
Iona was best known as the co-founder of Mexicali Rosa’s, a place that became far more than a restaurant. It was an extension of her family—a community where people of all ages were given opportunity, held to high standards, and encouraged to believe in their own potential. For many, Mexicali Rosa’s was where confidence was built, values were learned, and lifelong friendships and memories were formed.
Everyone who met Iona carried a special memory of her. She was kind, compassionate, deeply spiritual, and unfailingly present. She had a remarkable gift for remembering names, celebrating successes, and offering encouragement exactly when it was needed most.
In addition to her work at Mexicali Rosa’s, Iona was a dedicated teacher in Quebec for over 25 years and a passionate believer in education. She lived her values daily, setting a powerful example of positivity, purpose, and service.
Above all, Iona was most proud of her family.
She is survived by her loving children: Heather Fairfield (Eugene), Rob Fairfield (Dianne Beltrame), and John Fairfield (Patti Lomeli); her adored grandchildren: Vincent Wienecke (Ana), JD Wienecke (Allie), Bella, Jack, Diego and Sophie; and her precious great-grandchildren: Austin, Ada, and Wesley. Her loss is also felt immeasurably by her sisters Grace and Jean and her brother Gerry.
A funeral service will be held at St. Patrick’s Basilica, 220 Kent Street, Ottawa on December 30th at 10:30 am, followed by a reception in the lower hall. The family warmly invites all who knew and loved Iona to attend.
Iona’s legacy lives on through her family, the countless lives she touched, and the enduring community she helped build. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
If you wish to honour Iona with a donation please choose a charity of your choice or consider the Ottawa Food Bank https://donate.ottawafoodbank.ca/
Cremation services by Simple Choice Cremation Ottawa 613-692-5353.
