Irene Wihowski

Martha “Irene” Wihowski was called home and born into eternal life on February 9^th, 2022 at St. Luke’s Hospital, surrounded by family at the age of 90. Loving sweetheart and “schatzi” of Edward for 64 years. Devoted mother of David, Daniel (Mel), and Linda. Beloved grandmother of Jessica (Sam), Vania (Falcon), Nicole, Tiffany (Matthew), Johnathan (Erin) and Gavin. Cherished great-grandmother of Brooklyn, Amina, and Samara. Dear sister to Al Osterlund (Dorothy) and Dee Peterson (Grant) and sister-in-law to Phyllis Osterlund (the late Robert).

Preceded in death by her parents, Linus and Minnie Osterlund, her brothers Frank and Robert, and two great grandbabies.

Irene was mostly a “stay-at-home” mom, but she worked part time when the family needed as a cafeteria cook, pizza chef and secretary. Through the years her other roles included: pastor’s wife, Sunday school teacher, youth leader, women’s group leader, camp counselor, church pianist, babysitter for countless friends and family members, and informally adopted “Mom” to many children (and adults) who needed a little extra mothering.

Irene also assisted her husband in countless ways, including pounding some nails during the construction of two churches and their retirement house. Irene was a good cook and cheerful hostess for the many guests that she and her husband had over for lunch, dinner or just coffee.

The roles Irene loved most were being wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.  Irene was a wonderful example of the Proverbs 31 woman. Every decision she made, she kept her family in mind. She made clothes, prepared thousands of meals and kept a home abounding with love and generosity, was the first one up in the morning, and the last one to bed at night. Irene truly was a virtuous woman, who was worth more than rubies.

“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” Proverbs 31:10

Visitation will be held at Poplar Creek Church on Friday, February 18, 2022 from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Funeral Service at 6:00 PM with a luncheon to follow. Committal will take place on Monday February 21^st at 1:00 PM at Chapel Hill Memorial Park 4775 South 60th Street, Greenfield.