Irene Barton

hometown of Yonkers, New York. Born on December 28, 1931, also in Yonkers, Irene lived a

long and fulfilling life rooted in family, faith, and community. The daughter of Anna and John Balischak—immigrants from Czechoslovakia—Irene was raised with a deep appreciation for her Slovak heritage. She learned the Slovak language at Holy Trinity in Yonkers and took pride in preserving her family's traditions throughout her life. A graduate of Commerce High School in Yonkers, Irene valued education and had a lifelong love of learning. She enjoyed reading the newspaper daily and was always eager to expand her

knowledge. Her professional life reflected her dedication to service and care for others. Irene

worked as an administrative assistant at Lawrence Hospital and later as a teacher’s aide for the

Yonkers Parks Department Preschool Program. In addition to her career outside the home, she

was a devoted homemaker who cherished time spent with loved ones. Irene was a faithful parishioner of St. Bartholomew's Catholic Church for over 50 years. She taught Religious Education for many years. Her active involvement in the church community was a cornerstone of her life and brought her great joy.

Irene supported her community by volunteering at the polls. She was an active member of the

Bryn Mawr Yonkers Senior Center. She is lovingly remembered by her two sons, Bruce (Jacqueline) and Richard (Joyce); six grandchildren, Lisa (Randy), Michael (Brittany), Kristi, Laura, Christopher and Lacey; and five great-grandchildren: Allison, Elizabeth, Oliver, Lilith, and Charlotte. Irene’s warmth and everpresent smile made her many friends over the years. She found happiness in simple pleasures— spending time with family and friends—and left behind a legacy of kindness and connection.

Irene was predeceased by Anthony, her loving husband of 58 years; her parents Anna and John

Balischak; her brother John Balischak and his wife Judy; her sister Agnes O'Neill and her

husband Robert.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Whalen & Ball

Funeral Home, 168 Park Ave., Yonkers, NY 10703. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated

on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Saint Bartholomew's Church, 20 Roosevelt Street,

Yonkers, NY 10701. Interment will follow at Oakland Cemetery, 2 Saw Mill River Rd., Yonkers,

NY 10701.

May Irene’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.