Irene Leshuk age 89 died Friday, October 17th, 2008 at the Valley Eldercare Center in Grand Forks, ND.

Irene Iva Allen was born on May 17, 1919 the daughter of William and Catherine Allen near Rugby, ND. Irene grew up west of Oslo, MN and graduated from Oslo High School in 1938. Irene married John Leshuk on November 16, 1943 in Oslo, MN. They lived in Chicago for a few years then moved to East Grand Forks, MN in 1949. She was employed with Mary Elizabeth's and Mandel's as a Bridal Seamstress until she retired at the age of 71. The lady whose drawers were filled with little dresses, finger paintings, handmade cards and chipped Easter Bunnies. At 15 she won 1st and 2nd place prizes in the Marshall County Fair for her fancywork. Her sewing career started with making tents for World War II. She was the Mother who kept a close eye on her flock. Making sure they didn't sit on the step without a rug "so they wouldn't catch a cold in their kidneys." Where she watched the Weather Channel and called all her children and grandkids "to make sure they got home safely." Christmas was her favorite holiday. Working and planning so everyone could be together for group pictures and a great celebration. Besides motherhood, Irene did alterations at several businesses. At 61 she learned to drive so she could accept a job at Mandel's. When she got her license, John met her at the curb with a broomstick flag and shouted "watch out new driver" and a sign saying "Congratulations!! We knew you could do it." Irene retired at 71 and her job as Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma continued. Irene spent her last year at Valley Eldercare Center where she grew to love her favorite nurses. She left strict instruction for them to "check on her at night and wake her for Bingo." We will all miss her love, big heart, hugs, laughs and smile.

Family members who survive Irene include her sons: John (Delores) Leshuk of East Grand Forks, MN, Bob Leshuk of Fisher, MN; daughters: Sharon Hoiland of West Fargo, ND, Eileen Leshuk and Melodie Leshuk of East Grand Forks, MN; 10 grandchildren: Jodi Hoiland, Corey Hoiland, Jennifer Tinkler, Chad Leshuk, Sarah Leshuk, Tim Leshuk, Mike Leshuk, Jill Lynch, Andy Hayward and Gina Bush and 10 great-grandchildren.

Irene is preceded in death by her parents; husband John on December 13, 1988, 1 sister and a great-grandson.