May 19, 1935 – March 19, 2022
Irene Brown, 86 of Darby, MT passed away peacefully on March 19, 2022 surrounded by family and friends. There will be a gathering to celebrate Irene on Saturday, May 21, 2022 from 12 noon to 4 p.m. at Irene’s home in Darby.
Irene was born in Northern Minnesota to Carl and Nellie Gingerich on May 19, 1935. In the fall of 1937, when Irene was 2 years old she, along with her parents and seven siblings, moved to the Bitterroot Valley. They settled in Victor and after a few years her father, Carl, purchased the John Hickey place 5 miles west of Victor. This is where Irene spent her growing up years and attended school until 1950.
Irene married Ronnie Bumgartner and they had two sons, Richard (Ric) and Randy. Irene and Ronnie later divorced, and Irene married Don Brown, with sons Rod and Trenny. She and Don had three children, Reed, Dawn and Rocci. After many years together, Irene and Don divorced. Later, Irene shared her life with Ronald Lewis until his passing in January of 2012. Irene worked many jobs, some of which included cooking at hunting camps, cashier at People’s Market and, one of her favorites, a breakfast/training cook at Trapper Creek Job Corps. She retired from TCJC after 25 years of service. She continued to work a variety of part-time jobs, as she liked to keep busy and mostly enjoyed interacting with people. Irene also enjoyed watching and supporting her children and grandchildren in their many sports activities. She loved the outdoors and enjoyed picnics, scenic drives and working in her yard. She also enjoyed reading, watching football, cooking and spending time with family and friends. Irene was a spectacular cook and made the best ever dinner rolls, cinnamon rolls and roasted turkey! Most things she made without a recipe – she just had the knack!
Irene’s warm smile, quick wit and open door kept things hopping at “Gramma Irene’s!” The coffee was always on with kids, grandkids, friends and more friends in and out – that’s what made it so fun to go to Gramma’s (aka “mean Irene’s”)! She was very much loved and will be greatly missed!
Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Darby Public Library or Montana senior reading programs.