MRS. IRENE GRUNINGER of Magrath, beloved wife of Mr. George Gruninger, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4th 2009, after a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Irene was born January 12, 1939 to John and Mary Molcak and raised in the Mountain View area. Her focus in life was helping others, an inspiration that led her into the nursing profession. She graduated from St. Michael's school of nursing in 1960. Her adventurous spirit took her to Inuvik, NWT where she began her nursing career. She returned south and married George on April 12, 1964. They raised their four children on the farm in Magrath. She continued to work as a nurse with the VON and the Magrath health unit.
Irene will be remembered for her strong faith, great spirit and sense of humour. She was a devout Catholic and active CWL member known for her enthusiasm. For more than a decade she faithfully wrote to many Catholic Seminarians. Music was a very big part of Irene's life, she served as a pianist and organist for over 57 years at various churches. She was also involved in choir and other musical groups sharing her love and joy of music. Reading and writing were also Irene's passions. Over the years she filled many pages with poetry, for herself and others. She will be fondly remembered as ""The Storylady"" to a generation of students at Magrath elementary.

She is the dearly loved mother of Michael (Kathy), Cathy (Matt), Andy (Cheryl) and Paul (Danielle). She will be greatly missed by her 6 grandchildren, Meagan, Amy, Madeline, Mark, Emily and Rayna. Irene is also survived by brothers Bob (Connie) and Jack (Judy), sisters Ruth (Allen) and Sharon, sister in law Elizabeth Stanek and brother in law Steve Gruninger and numerous nieces and nephews. Irene is predeceased by her parents John and Mary Molcak, sisters Mary and Anne.

Many friends made Irene's life richer with kindness and we are ever thankful to everyone who showed their love and support to Irene these past few months. We would also like to extend our utmost gratitude to the staff of St.Michael's Health Centre Palliative Care Unit for their excellent care and compassion.

Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at 7:00 pm, on Monday, October 12th, 2009, at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 Street South, Lethbridge, AB.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am, on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 12 Ave. South, with Father Raul Hernandez celebrant.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her honour to St. Michael's Health Centre Palliative Care, 1400-9 Ave South, Lethbridge T1J 4V5.