Irene May Belmore (nee Felio), age 94, was called home to the Lord on Aug. 9, 2017, releasing her spirit from a body that had betrayed her in recent years causing her a great deal of pain, physically and mentally.

Irene was born Dec. 23, 1922 in Stevens Point to the late Louis and Pearl (Parks) Felio.

Irene attended the Training School at what is now UWSP and graduated from P.J. Jacobs High School.

During the war, Irene worked at a steel manufacturing company in IL where, in her own words, she "screwed for the government" -Irene's subtle sense of humor was always entertaining. She actually operated a hoist while employed at the steel manufacturing company. She later moved to Riverside, CA and worked for the local telephone company.

Irene married Arthur Belmore, the love of her life, on April 11, 1942. After her marriage, she dedicated her life to making a good home for her husband, and later their two children. As the children grew, Irene became very involved with their school activities and served as room mother many times; making numerous cupcakes and other treats for them and their classmates.

After her children were in high school, Irene worked at McClellan's Five and Dime. She also worked at the Holiday Inn for several years. In her later years, she volunteered at St. Michael's Hospital, working at the gift shop.

Irene had a great sense of adventure- like the time she was traveling home with the girls and came upon a litter of orphaned skunks, which she decided, with the help of the girls, it would be a good idea to rescue them; take them home; and care for them until they were able to take care of themselves. Her husband, Art, was not as excited about this as the rest of the family. The little stinkers ended up living in a box just outside the bedroom window until they were strong enough to find their own way in world.

Irene spent many happy hours hunting and fishing with Art. She was an amazing cook and prepared many memorable meals using the fish and wild game they caught.

Irene enjoyed bowling for many years until she was forced to stop because of severe back pain. She also enjoyed playing cards and board games with friends and family. She loved to just get in the car and explore new roads with her many friends. Polka dancing was another favorite pastime.

Irene is survived by her loving daughters, Linda Jorgenson and Bonnie (Jack) Stanley. She was a devoted grandmother to six grandchildren, Susan (late husband, Butch), David, Diane, Jane, A.J. (Kathy), and Lulu (Roger); and her great grandchildren, Terry, Michelle, D.J., and Alex. She was also a great great grandmother to Kollin, Kamden, and baby Kynslee. She was everyone's favorite Aunt, as well as the favorite destination for visiting relatives.

There are many wonderful memories of the many Thanksgivings, Easters, Christmases, and birthdays, all made special by Irene's untiring efforts.

She was blessed to have been able to hold her great great grandson, Jayden before he preceded her in death at the age of 6 from HLHS. She is also preceded in death by her husband, Art; brothers, Elmer and Henry; son-in-law, David Jorgenson; and granddaughter, Diane.

In accordance with Irene's wishes, no services will be held. Memorials may be made to the Portage County Humane Society, Alzheimer's Foundation of America, or the Skunk Rescue Foundation (Hee Hee).

Family wishes to thank the staff at the Wellington Place for the care given; especially her buddy, Jan. Special thanks to Dixie and Patti from Community Link for your care and compassion for not only mom but for the two of us -we are forever grateful. We also thanks Ministry hospice.

Irene will be sincerely missed by all of those her knew her and loved her. We love you and we'll miss you mom; and we're happy that you're now pain free and at peace.

Published in Stevens Point Journal on Aug. 15, 2017