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   Irene went home to be with Jesus with her daughters by her side December 3rd. Irene was born on her family’s farm in Sebeka Minnesota January 3rd 1938. She moved to Minneapolis when she was 18 and worked for the telephone company. She went on a blind date with Arlan Schires and it was love at first sight! They married on November 3rd, 1956. They moved to Fridley and raised their three daughters Karen, Diane and Brenda. Irene was a talented artist and earned her AA degree at Anoka Ramsey College. She loved painting, drawing, sewing, knitting, needlepoint and crochet. Arlan and Irene moved to Hackensack Minnesota when they retired in 1994. Irene designed their home on Child Lake and did much of the work to finish their home. She loved their neighbors, church and family.

   Irene will be greatly missed by her daughters Karen Graham (Ed) and Diane Schires. Grandchildren Bryan Simmonds (Erin), Mitch Simmonds (Jasmine), Sonya Simmonds (Andy) and Tony Winkleblack (Jade), 9 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Irene was preceded in death by her husband and soul mate of 68 years Arlan Schires, beloved daughter Brenda, parents, 3 brothers and 1 sister.

   A private celebration of life will be held in the summer. Those wishing to honor Irene may do so in their own way, perhaps wishing mom a Happy Birthday on January 3rd. 

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