Irene Marie Pecaric

Irene Marie Pecaric

Irene passed away peacefully on January 20th, 2020 in South Haven, Michigan. Irene was 79 and was born on September 3, 1940 in Maribor, Slovenia to Mary and Frank Sedlasek.

In the winter of 1960, Irene married the love of her life, Paul.Over the past 60 years, their life focused on raising three wonderful children and enjoying a life to be proud of, centered on family. Irene immigrated to the Chicago area with her parents and brother (Frank) in 1956; she then completed high school and received a degree from Jones Business School.  In 1962 she had her first child, a son (John), in 1963 a daughter (Diane), and then in 1968 a son (Robert).  From that point forward, Irene devoted all her energy into raising and caring for her children. 

Irene took great pride in being the best Mom and having a career outside the home. She was an exemplary role-model for all that knew her but especially for her grandchildren; Nate Jacobson, Nica Jacobson, and Josh Pecaric. She enjoyed spending  any time she could with her grandkids.  Whether it was cooking for them on the farm, picking blueberries, or protecting them from the farm animals.
Irene was best known for her strength, courage, and hospitality. Anyone who knew Irene admired her unwavering strength having overcome breast cancer.  Her home was a place of warmth and the smell of her cooking was the second thing one received after a big hug when you visited her.  Irene spent the past three years defying all odds and fighting for more time    with her family and friends. In the end, no time is enough time. We are thankful for each day that we had with her. 

Irene was predeceased by her parents Frank and Mary Sedlasek. She is survived by her husband Paul Pecaric; her children John Pecaric and wife Ronda, Diane Jacobson and her husband Dan Jacobson; and Robert Pecaric; her grandchildren Nate, Nica, and Josh; and her brother Frank Sedlasek Jr. and his wife Lois.
The family thanks the Nurses from Hospice and River Ridge for their care of Irene.
 

Thank you, Irene/Mom/Stara Mama, for teaching us the importance of family. You are an excellent example of strength, courage, positivity and kindness. You will be forever missed and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing you!  

Family will welcome guest Friday 3:00PM – 8:00PM January 24th, 2020 with a  Prayer Service 7:00PM  at Zarzycki Manor Chapels  8999 South Archer Ave. Willow Springs, Il. Saturday Irene will be lying in state 9:00AM until Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, in Lemont, Il. Interment: Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, Il.  A small reception will follow. 

Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements entrusted to Debbie Zefran-Jerry 630-230-8399 or cell:708-212-0413

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