Irene Pieri

Pieri Irene, age 79, a longtime resident of Brooklyn Center, died Dec. 27 in Watsonville, CA. Born in Ray, ND on New Year's Eve in 1921, Irene was one of 7 siblings born to Norwegian farming immigrants. When she was 5, the family relocated to Pequot Lakes, MN. After graduation, she worked as a secretary. Dancing was her favorite activity in those days; she met Aldo at the Marigold Ballroom in '49. They married in 1954 and raised 4 children. Irene retired in 1986, she then moved to CA in 1994 to live with her daughter, Lana. Preceded in death by husband, Aldo; brothers, Howard, Robert and Dempsey Mortenson; and sister, Alice Rock. Survived by daughters, Ann (Larry Miller), Maple Grove; Jean (Chuck Logan), Stillwater; Lana (Jim Enloe), Prunedale, CA; son, Jim (Debi Shreve), El Sobrante, CA; granddaughters, Lea Miller, Sofia Logan and Rozene Enloe; brother, Donald Mortenson (Julie), Maple Grove; sister, Florence Hamilton (John), Susanville, CA; sisters-in-law, Carol Mortenson, Jerene Mortenson, Nancy Fuggiti (Romeo), Bettina Pieri (Terry Johnson); cousin, Ernie Aslakson, and many nieces and nephews. Irene is remembered as a loving mother, and good friend with a great sense of humor. She loved music and played a mean game of Scrabble. A special thank you to her caregivers and supporters during her long struggle with Alzheimer's. Memorials preferred to Activity Director, Valley Convalescent Hospital, 919 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville, CA 95077. A memorial gathering will be held in CA.

Published on December 30, 2001