Irene (Pampuch) Halama, 101, passed away on March 7, 2026, at Dove Healthcare Center in Osseo, Wisconsin.
Irene was born on August 18, 1924, in Winona, Minnesota, to John A. and Catherine (Pientok) Pampuch. She was baptized at St. Stanislaus Church in Arcadia. Irene graduated from Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School in 1938, and from Independence High School in 1942. Following graduation, she worked for four years at the Defense Sewing Factory in River Falls.
On May 12, 1947, Irene married Ernest Halama at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Independence, Wisconsin. Ernest preceded her in death on May 18, 1981. They were blessed with six children: Marie (Elwyn) Vermette, Theresa (Bill) Thoma, Catherine (Richard) Loisel, John ( Rita) Halama, Cynthia (Wayne) Gregory, and Helen Anne, who died 13 hours after birth.
Irene and Ernest farmed for many years, and, after retiring, enjoyed traveling and fishing. They were both very active leaders in the 4-H program.
Irene worked for 18 years as a special education aide. She also cared for Elk Creek School, cleaning the building from the time it was constructed in 1954, until it later consolidated with Independence. In addition, she worked at Ashley Furniture during its early years. Irene devoted many hours to volunteer service, including helping at the hospital and nursing home in Whitehall, delivering Meals on Wheels for 10 years, assisting at the rectory at St. John’s Church in Whitehall, and offering help wherever it was needed.
She enjoyed cooking, baking, and canning, and she was especially known for her quilting and crocheting. Irene generously shared her quilts and afghans with many individuals and charitable groups. She was also active in several church organizations , including the St. Elizabeth Society, PCCW and the Rosary Society.
In addition to her children, Irene is survived by 17 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and 22 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one brother, Jerry.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father George Thayilkuzhithottu officiating. Family and friends may call at the church beginning at 10 a.m. until the time of Mass. Burial will be in the church cemetery. To express condolences to her family online, please visit www.edisonfuneralhome.com.
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