Irene Helen Friesen Warkentin

January 18, 1920 - October 28, 2015

Irene Warkentin, 95, began her life journey on January 18, 1920, in Burrton, Kan. She began her Heavenly journey with her Lord on Oct. 28, 2015, peacefully with her family at her side after complications from pneumonia.

Irene was born to the late Frank and Susie Friesen and was raised on the family farm with her sister, Eleanor and brother, Weldon. At the age of 18, Irene was taken to the Hutchison hospital by her mother where the nuns put her to work in the kitchen doing dishes and mopping floors. She quickly realized that she wanted to be a nurse after spending time there and making many friends. She became a registered nurse in 1941 and continued her nursing career until 1983 working at Samaritan Hospital and for Dr. Young.

Irene married Orlando Warkentin on Sept. 15, 1946, and together they made their home in Newton, Kansas. They moved to Aberdeen, Idaho, before settling in Moses Lake where they would raise their family, Carol, Gary, Lois, Ruth and Helen.

Irene loved music and was involved with the church choir where she and Orlando performed duets on numerous occasions. Many will remember Irene as a vital part of the church family serving as an elder, deacon, and president of the women’s association. She also volunteered to help with the youth, wedding receptions, building projects, fundraisers, and spent many hours working with the other women to prepare for the Christmas craft bazaars.

Irene led a full life and at 95 she still enjoyed fishing with her son Gary. Irene was the hub of activities even at her assisted living residence. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren including her extended step grandchildren. Each was given a homemade quilt or crocheted blanket handmade with love when born.

Irene was preceded in death by her husband, daughter Carol, her sister and brother. She is survived by Gary and Paula of Post Falls, Idaho, Lois and Robert of Bend, Oregon, Ruth and Randy of Post Falls, Idaho, and Helen and Marvin of Lewiston, Idaho. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Irene will be dearly missed by family and friends she left behind. There is a saying about “going to meet your maker.” Irene didn’t have to go, she already knew Him and His Son and They were constantly with her. They just took her hand, walking her, she knew, to “the room He had prepared for her in Heaven.”

Memorial service will be held at the Moses Lake Presbyterian Church, Nov. 14, 2015 at 11:00 am. Donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or the Cancer Fund in memory of Irene. Please sign the online guestbook or leave a note for the family at www.kayserschapel.com. Arrangements are in care of Kayser’s Chapel & Crematory.