Irene M. Lawler

Irene M. Lawler, age 94 of Kenosha, passed away on Tuesday, February 19, 2019 at Aurora Medical Center.

Born on December 10, 1924 in Kenosha, she was the daughter of the late Ignatz and Janina (Michalek) Makoveck.

On May 4, 1946 at St. James Catholic Church, she was united in marriage to John M. Lawler, Sr.  After nearly 53 years of marriage, John preceded her in death on February 18, 1999.

As a young woman, Irene was employed as a secretary at Nash-Kelvinator and after raising her family, Irene enjoyed helping with the care of people as a nurse’s aide at Washington Manor Nursing Home.

Faith and family were very important to Irene. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Irene had many interests including: sewing, knitting, and playing the piano for enjoyment. She was an avid reader, especially of mystery stories. She enjoyed traveling and visiting historical sites. Her activities included gardening, biking, swimming, and hiking. She enjoyed playing cards and working puzzles. She had a great appreciation of music, especially opera and classical music, and enjoyed the Kenosha Symphony.

Irene was a member of St. James Catholic Church and was active at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church and St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

She is survived by her loving children, John (Lynn) Lawler, Jeanette (Joe) Fanfarillo, Michael (Susan) Lawler, Louise Holz, Susan (Dave) Bose, Edward (Linda) Lawler, Frederick (Terri) Lawler, and Joan (Doug) Palmer; 27 grandchildren and 51 great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Edward and Frederick Makoveck; a grandson, Joseph “Joey” Fanfarillo; and her son-in-law, Frank Holz.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Brookside Care Center and Aurora Medical Center for the exceptional care they provided.