Irene Foster Patineau, 92, died Friday, May 11, 2012.
Irene was born in Bertha, Minn., on Aug. 23, 1919. She moved to International Falls at age 2 with her family.
Irene graduated from Falls High School in 1937 and regularly met with her classmates every month until a few years ago.
Irene married Joe Patineau in International Falls on Oct. 15, 1939.
She was a homemaker for most of her life, but enjoyed building things, remodeling the lake cabin, tatting, knitting, hunting and all outdoor activities.
A special talent was creating picture frames from cedar that were all hand carved and fitted together with no nails or glue. She was taught by Joe’s uncle, and the family will be able to enjoy her craft for years to come.
During World War II, Irene lived in California while her husband, Joe, was in the United States Marine Corps, stationed at Camp Pendleton. After returning to International Falls, when Joe was sent to the Pacific Theater, she worked in the local Gambles store and at a gas station, in place of all the men who were in the military.
When Joe retired, they traveled to Texas every winter until Joe’s death.
They spent the summers at the cabin on Grindstone Island, which both of them loved.
In later years, Irene delivered Meals on Wheels for the senior center, volunteered for the Ruffed Grouse Society Youth Day and for the Falls Hunger Coalition. She was the manager of Bingo at the senior center for a period of time, and she enjoyed being “at the lake.”
Irene was a member of Faith United Church of Christ.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Patineau; parents, Harry and Edna (Lesemann) Foster; brother, Lt. Gordon Foster; and sister, Lucille Lupkes.
Irene is survived by her daughters, Joann Dornhecker and husband Jim, and Jean Faber (Jack Gerardy); five grandchildren, Tony Berg, Randy Dornhecker; Shannon Dornhecker; Jessica (Steve) Crosby and Brian Faber. Irene has four great-grandchildren, Meggan Flovick, Brenna Crosby, Kelsey Berg, Matthew Berg; and nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 15, at Faith United Church of Christ.
Memorials in memory of Irene are preferred to Falls Alumni Association, Faith United Church of Christ, or Backus Community Building.
Condolences may be left at www.greenlarsen.com.
Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary Inc., International Falls.
