Irene Zmrazek

Irene Mary Zmrazek of Strickland Township died peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010, surrounded by her family at Luther Middlefort Hospital in Barron.

She was born Aug. 16, 1933, to George and Mary Hrouda. She was the loving wife of Steven Zmrazek.

Irene is survived by her husband Steven; her brother George (Karen) Hrouda; her children Mary McGraw, Lois (Ron) Jacobsen, Richard Poplawski, Joseph Poplawski, Michael (Judy) Poplawski and Laurie (August) Neverman; and her step-children Janice Zmrazek, Kathy (Craig) Patterson and Steven Zmrazek; her grandchildren Ed (Jessica) Rebak, William Rebak, Thai Webb, Chrystal Webb, Kira (Tim) Neuman, Richard (Stephanie) Poplawski, Rebekah Poplawski, Serah Poplawski, August Neverman, Duncan Neverman, Sara Patterson, Kady Patterson, Steven (Suzi) Zmrazek, Jessica (Daryl) Runde and Joshua Zmrazek; and her great-grandchildren Shyleigh Iveland, Renee Iveland, Vaniessa Iveland, Callysta Iveland, Hunter Rebak, Gunner Rebak, Alexis Runde and Carter Runde.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, George and Mary; and her brother Edward Hrouda.

Irene’s passions were gardening, cooking and baking — especially gingerbread houses. Above all else, she loved her family. She was a hard working farmer, professional caterer and foster grandparent. She was involved in the Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church for many years, baking and frying donuts for numerous fund-raisers. She welcomed all into her home and made sure no one ever left hungry.

A visitation and memorial service will be held from 4-8 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 19, at the Nash-Jackan Funeral Home in Bruce.

A Celebration Mass will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 20, at the Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Weyerhaeuser.

Burial will be in the St. Boniface Cemetery in Chetek.