Irene M. O’Connell, age 96, of Kenosha, passed away on Tuesday, August 2, 2016, at Hospice Alliance Hospice House in Pleasant Prairie.

Born on March 17, 1920, in Kenosha, she was the daughter of the late Carl and Sophie (Kotarski) Korzilius.  She attended local schools, was a graduate of Kenosha High School and also Trenary’s College of Commerce.

On March 6, 1948, Irene was united in marriage to Thomas “Bud” J. O’Connell at Grace Lutheran Church.  They were blessed with two children and 49 years of marriage before he passed away on January 27, 1998.

Irene was employed with McWhyte Wire Rope Company, Frost Company and the Leader Store.  She was also a 60-year member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and volunteered her time at St. Catherine’s Hospital.

Irene enjoyed reading, spending time with her family & visits from her church friends.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathleen (Jim) Ribar; her four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, her loving nieces and nephews and daughter in law, Gail O’Connell.  In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Patrick J. O’Connell, Sr.; a sister, Elsie Fonk and a great grandson, Thomas O’Connell.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to her dedicated grandsons, Patrick (Chris) and Mark (Lori) O’Connell; her loving niece and husband that were attentive to Irene’s care, Christine “Missy” & Scott Fredrick and special family friend, Sue Hamilton for all their time and compassion given to Irene over the years. Also, sincere thanks to the ladies from “Right at Home” and the Hospice Alliance, Inc. staff for their care.

Service Info

Funeral services honoring Irene’s life will be held on Monday, August 8, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 7104-39th Avenue. Interment will follow in Sunset Ridge Memorial Park.