Irene E. Schilling

Schilling, Irene E.
( Nee Kutchek) Was born November 11, 1923 in Angelica, WI to Jacob and Wanda; she was the second of six children. Irene spent her childhood on a farm climbing trees and doing chores. She had to leave school in tenth grade to help support the family after her father passed. Later, she moved to Milwaukee with her best friend Verna and worked in a factory. Irene met Ralph Szelogowski (changed to Schilling) in a bowling alley and he told her “I’m not leaving without you”. They were married on September 9, 1950.

Irene was quiet and hardworking; she dedicated herself to her husband and five children. She was known for her cooking, gardening, crocheting and hospitality. She tirelessly cared for her children and later grand-children and children of relatives. Irene had a significant role in Ralph’s concrete business, scheduling appointments, speaking with clients and “bookkeeping”. She enjoyed entertaining relatives and friends at holiday celebrations, family gatherings and pool parties. Irene’s individuality and interests blossomed outside of the caregiver role after Ralph’s passing on October 26, 1996. She read newspapers and books and shared her thoughts; she enjoyed traveling, word puzzles, family poker games and casino slot machines, but mostly, she enjoyed time with family. Although dementia weakened her mind and body, Irene loved and cherished her family to the end. Irene arrived in heaven on June 26, 2017 at the age of 93 years. She passed peacefully surrounded by family.

Irene lost many loved ones including husband Ralph, eldest son Randolph and siblings Francis, Angeline, John, Roman and Rose. She is survived by children, Jeffrey Schilling (Marilou), Scott Schilling, Grace Halenka and Judith Mannix; grandsons, Christopher, Bruce, Matthew, Alexander, Andrew, Daniel and Patrick; and great-grandchildren Madelyn, Eva, Logan, Isabelle, Mya, Lily and Sophia, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
We want to acknowledge the staff at Layton Terrace where Irene resided for over 6 years. Irene developed close relationships with many caregivers and they became extended family. Gratitude to VITAS Hospice for their education, care and support during Irene’s end of life journey.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Wednesday July 5th at the FUNERAL HOME from 4-7PM with a Memorial Service at 7PM. Private family interment Wood National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity.