Frances Irene Menchinger

Irene Menchinger of Chapin, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on Friday, October 13, 2023. Irene was born in Riverside, Michigan, the third child of Orville and Verna Teter. She was a graduate of Benton Harbor High School and in 1953 married Ernest R. Menchinger of Sodus, Michigan. They raised their family in Kalamazoo, MI and Columbia, SC. Irene and Ernie celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary together on October 10, 2023.

Irene devoted her life to encouraging, guiding, and loving her husband, Ernie, and her five children, Linda (Verner Johnson), Cheryl (deceased), Michael (Kathryn), Steven (Martha), and Ronald (Sharon Harris). For most of the years the children were growing up, they were fortunate to have a full-time Mom at home, managing the busy household, making sure homework was done, helping with Scouts, sports, and other activities and volunteering at their schools.

She was a loving grandmother to Patrick Egleston (Tiffany), Tess (Wesley Mize), David, Kelly (Caroline), Helen (Dylan DuPree), Jason, and John (Skylar Groves) and her great-grandchild, Lillian Mize. She was dearly loved by her immediate and extended family, as well as her many friends at Lake Murray Presbyterian Church and The Heritage at Lowman retirement community. Irene was known for her written correspondence. She sent hundreds of cheerful, thoughtful and supportive notes and cards over the years which are treasured by the recipients.

Irene was intellectually curious and a good listener. She was truly interested in learning and understanding more about the world and the people who crossed her path. She had an optimistic spirit and could always find the bright side and something to be grateful for in any challenging situation. She loved to read and discuss books, especially on history topics. In just the last 6 months of her life, she read at least 12 biographies of America’s founders and their wives.

Throughout her long life, Irene believed in God’s love and guidance, always trusting Him to show her the right path. Wherever she and her family lived, Irene found a church home where she could worship, study the Bible, and contribute as a Sunday School teacher and in other volunteer roles. As she neared the end of her life, she was at peace, knowing that God was holding her in His hands.

There will be a Celebration of Life service and reception on Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 2:00-4:00pm, at Lake Murray Presbyterian Church, 2721 Dutch Fork Rd, Chapin, SC 29036

If you would like to make a donation in Irene’s memory, please consider Lake Murray Presbyterian Church: https://www.lmpchurch.org/contributions/

Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel, is assisting the family.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.