Irene Marie Altendorf

Born in Grafton, ND March 24, 1923, Irene Marie (Sevigny) Altendorf died March 8, 2017. Irene lived the latter half of her life in Mesa, Arizona, but she and her husband returned to Grafton each summer, cherishing the family and farm that they cultivated together. Educated at Oakwood Catholic School, Irene was a prayerful powerhouse, who guided her family with her quick wit, open arms, and lifelong devotion to Mary. Marrying the love of her life just prior to his World War II deployment, Irene remained Alwin Thomas Altendorf’s best friend and confidante for 66 years. Over the course of their marriage, Irene and Alwin: welcomed 6 children, owned and operated the Leonard and Tower motels, worked and rented their family farms, and enjoyed their lengthy retirement in Mesa, Arizona.

Vibrant and active throughout her life, Irene: walked 3 times a day, nurtured her roses and geraniums, was an avid square dancer and swimmer, enjoyed riding her 3-wheeled bicycle alongside her husband, was a seasoned rosary maker, and even played softball and croquet with her grandchildren. Known to always have an ace up her sleeve, Irene was passionate about her card playing, and whoa to the person who dared to call while a game was in progress! After beating you at pinochle or bridge, Irene would console you with her famous banana bread, cookies, and cinnamon rolls, and she would gleefully proclaim that, “All’s fair in love and cards!”

To know Irene was to adore her spirit, spunk, and fantastic arsenal of French phrases. As a testament to a life well lived, Irene’s family and friends have flourished under her care. Blessed by her endless source of love and prayers, our beloved Matriarch lives on in each and every one of us.

Irene’s Memorial Service will be celebrated March 13, 2017 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Mesa, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a rose or lilac bush in Irene’s memory. You may also consider a donation to Irene’s favorite charity, the Association of the Miraculous Medal (http://www.amm.org).

Irene is preceded in death by her: parents Leon & Clara Sevigny; husband Alwin Altendorf; brothers Alfred Adelore, Alfred Edward, and Rene; sisters Eva Mae (Sevigny) Suda, Helena (Sevigny) Suda, and Amelia Sevigny; and grandson Jason Karnoupakis.

Irene is survived by her: (6 children) Sister Sharon Altendorf, Gary (JoAnne) Altendorf, Rose (Joel) Rosenberg, Carol (Jim) Horine, Norma Iwan, and Helen(Dave) Votava; brothers Raymond Sevigny and Wilmer (Laverne) Sevigny, sisters Olivine (Sevigny) Houdek and Edith (Sevigny) Gierszewski, 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

Visitation Sunday March 12th, 5pm to 8pm. Rosary at 7pm

Melcher Mortuary Mission Chapel

6625 East Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85205

Funeral Mass Monday March 13th, 1:30pm

Holy Cross Catholic Church

1244 South Power Road, Mesa, AZ 85206