Irene Rathermel
Irene was born in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin on October 23, 1932 to Rosie and Alex Bakovka. Irene was the youngest of four children, Joe, John, and Steve. Irene married Francis Rathermel on July 3, 1951, which later ended in divorce. They had one child, Dennis born December 1, 1951. During her adult life, Irene had numerous employments to include Grubba Jewelers, Roche-A-Cri Clinic and later moved to Madison, Wisconsin and was employed at UW Health. In later years she moved back to Friendship and lived with Dennis and Cathy in Friendship until her placement at Villa Pines Nursing Home where she remained until she passed away.
Survivors include her son, Dennis and daughter-in-law, Cathy; biological grandchildren, Tanya and husband Scott Kotlowski in Friendship, Wisconsin and Tammy Rathermel in Desoto, Wisconsin. She is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by ex-husband, Francis, and her three brothers, Joe, John and Steve. Per Irene’s request there will be no service. Internment will be at a later date in the East Arkdale Cemetery.
Sorry to hear of Irene’s passing. My condolences to the entire family.
I so remember Irene. What a classy lady. I loved our shared lunches in Madison. It was so enjoyable visiting with her when Tammy lived in Madison as well. Tammy, Dennis, Cathy, Tanya and Scott you have my deepest sympathies on the loss of your Mom and Grandma. RIP Irene. Hugs.
So sorry to hear of Irene’s passing. She was one classy special lady. RIP Irene.
– I worked with Irene at Physicians Plus and UW Health. She was so very nice and kind. She could speak elegantly and be out spoken, all in the same sentence.
Irene always knew just how what to say, especially to some of the elderly people she would help on the phone. I would see her stay late to work on her “special accounts” to help others. She didn’t want people to worry about such things.
We started spending time outside of work and I greatly enjoyed her company. At times, we would sit in her sunroom, have tea, and talk about anything/everything.
She had a lot of knowledge and was a very loyal friend. I have missed her.
To her family: I am sorry for your loss
I hope your memories will bring you comfort. Peace to her soul. 💖
Our condolences to the family.
Tonya. Cathy and family my deepest condolences to the entire family. God bless yous at this time.
We were saddened to hear of Irene’s passing. I knew her many years ago when she worked at R-A-C Clinic. One grand lady. Blessings to the family.
Dennis and Cathy I’m so sorry for your loss
So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sorry for your loss….peace be with you all!!
So sorry for your loss!
Sorry to hear of Irene’s passing. Prayers to all
We’re sorry for your loss… peace and comfort to you and your families during this difficult time..
I’m sorry to see this. She was such a sweet lady. We did some carpentry work for Dennis and Kathy and Irene was living in the lower level. We redid her bathroom down there and a few other things.. My condolences to her family and loved ones…❤️
To Irene’s family, so sorry for your loss. She will watch over you all now.
I’m so sorry on your loss. She’s flying with angels. May God family and friends comfort you