Irene Mary Gramza

Irene Gramza passed away peacefully on August 23, 2024 at the age of 80. She is survived by her daughter Carolyn Hawkins (Allen Hawkins) and son Christopher; grandsons Nicholas, Adam (Kyla),and Jeremy (Cara), as well as 8 great-grandchildren Realynn, Hayden, Zephyr, Margaret, Evelyn, Donovan, Adrianna, and Ricky. She is preceded in death by her husband of over 50 years Stanley, her brother Ted Jakubowski Jr (Terrie), and her parents Ted and Sophie Jakubowski.

Irene was born in Depew, NY on 9/20/1943 and grew up in her family’s business Colonial Bakery on Broadway Road. When Irene and a classmate walked into their freshman math class at Depew-Lancaster High School she spotted someone across the room and declared that she would marry him someday. That someone was Stan Gramza and that day was June 25, 1966 when they were married. They started their married life in Pittsburgh where they became dedicated Steelers fans. A short move to Philadelphia preceded their final destination of Phoenix, AZ.

Carolyn and Chris were lucky to have a stay at home mom through high school years. She was there for school events, Girl Scouts, and basketball games. As this came to an end she found different ways to occupy her time. True to her roots, she would make beautifully decorated cakes for friends and family. Irene was Arizona Cactus-Pine Girl Scout Council's cookie lady for years, traveling the state training new leaders for cookie time, along with supporting in town troops with their efforts. Irene is a Lifetime Member and received the Girl Scout Thanks Badge twice. Irene attended many national Girl Scout conventions, which turned into an every 3 year girl’s trip for her and Carolyn.

Mustangs were the family's favorite car, so it was no surprise when she bought her 40th anniversary edition in 2003. She joined Chris on several Mustang Across America car rallies, showing off her ‘baby’ while sharing stories of both Chris and her brother Ted’s cars.

When Irene retired from Dillards after 22 years of service as the Store Secretary the family wondered what she would do with her time. They quickly realized that Irene was really just getting started. Irene was a member of the St Paul’s Women’s Guild, helping with as many events as she could fit in her schedule. She has a tree planted on the church grounds in recognition of her dedication to the St Paul community.

Irene was a member of the Phoenix Diocese Council of Catholic Women and then the National Council of Catholic Women. Most recently, Irene worked on their national nominating committee. Irene was most proud of her local, state, and national membership in the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Irene has held many different positions within the organization across all levels of involvement. Irene is an Arizona past State Regent, and most recently finished two terms as a National Director. Wherever Irene went and to whomever she met, she was always proudly introducing herself as a Catholic Daughter.

For those who knew Irene and to those who were lucky to come in contact with her, they could be assured that she was always looking out for and hoping the best for them. Many homeless and in need unknowingly received a personal hygiene bag filled with supplies put together in Irene’s family room. Irene’s legacy exists not just with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren but also in the countless men and women she has inspired, mentored, coached, and not only let a hand but also a listening ear. We will carry her words and inspiration with us, passing it along to future generations. We will cook your sweet potatoes and mushroom soup, knowing they won’t taste quite the same. We’ve been blessed with you and will miss you deeply.