Irene Kershinar went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on November 5th, 2024. Irene was born in Stuttgart, Germany. She grew up in Germany during World War II. When prompted by her family, she shared memories of being an early teen during this awful period. Because of her proficiency with the English language, she was hired by the U.S. military to serve in the rebuilding efforts. During this time
she met an American soldier, and they eventually married. She recalled the heartache as she packed her belongings in a single suitcase and boarded a ship by herself to join her husband in America. (Apparently, she had to travel alone because of military protocols.) Being a military wife meant moving—frequently. She remembered living in Maryland, Texas, Tennessee, and, eventually, Tacoma, Washington. Shortly after moving to Tacoma, her husband died. She continued to work at Sears Roebuck and Company and make a life for herself in America. While attending an event at Fort Lewis in Tacoma, Irene met Lou Kershinar. Lou and Irene married on June 20, 1959. They settled in Spokane in 1962 and began attending St. Thomas More parish where they remained committed servants for 50 years. After Lou passed away in 2015, Irene continued to remain committed to church and active in the community. She enjoyed reading, playing bridge, and being with people. Irene was known for her kindness, generosity, and sweet spirit. Her family will miss her. Irene is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, five grandsons, and eight great grandchildren.