Irene Marie Stipic, a lifetime resident of Aberdeen, Washington, passed away on Jan. 8, 2023, at the age of 86 years old. She was born on Feb. 23, 1936, to Benjamin and Valarie (Walczyk) Zembal. She graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1953, and from Seattle University in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

She married Edward Joseph Stipic at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, and they had four children: Mark, Linda, Joseph and Susan.

Irene was a Registered Nurse. She worked at St. Joseph Hospital in Aberdeen 1957-1973, Grays Harbor Community Hospital 1973-1977, and Harbor Surgical Associates 1977-1990. She returned to Grays Harbor Community Hospital in 1990, eventually retiring in 1998.

She was a member of the Grays Harbor Nurses Association, Preceptor Omicron Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, St. Aurilla’s Guild and past president and vice president of the American Cancer Society (local Chapter). She was an avid golfer and longtime member of Grays Harbor Country Club.

She was preceded in death by her husband Edward, son Mark and sister Grace Hines. She is survived by her daughter Linda (Roger) Clay, son Joseph (Shelly) Stipic and daughter Susan Ryan, and nine grandchildren: Tyler (Mollie) Clay, Stephanie (Ty) Partington, Shawn, Tyson, Sam, Tanner and Sydni Stipic; Caroline and Jacqueline Ryan, great-grandchild: Bennett Partington and special family friends Debra Rikalo Cotter, Jody Rikalo Gerber, Dennis and Donna Morrisette and Barbara Morrisette Lea.

Irene lived a full, rich life of many interests and passions. She maintained a loving home that was welcome to all, and she was an outstanding cook and baker. She had a heart of gold. She leaves behind her loving family and numerous friends and colleagues that will never forget her. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mary’s School 518 North H Street, Aberdeen, WA 98520. A service is being planned for a later date.