Irma Lorraine Blaschka

April 24, 1935-September 2, 2023

Irma Loraine Blaschka beloved, wife, mom, grandmother, and friend, joined her heavenly family on the morning of September 2nd, surrounded by her loving family.

Irma was the 8th of 9 siblings born to Leo and Viola Rebhahn. The family lived and farmed for many years in Valley City, North Dakota. Farm life was never boring for the Rebhahn family. They forged through snow-filled winters, hot humid summers, raising animals, harvesting crops and celebrating life at small town dances. Mom loved to sing and dance. She never missed an episode of Lawrence Welk.

After attending school in Valley City, Irma moved to Fargo where she worked as a telephone operator for the local phone company while living in a boarding house. After a while, seeking new adventures and scenery, she moved to Missoula, Montana where she resided with her sister Eileen and family. Once again, seeking adventure she relocated to Seattle WA where she began a new career as a grocery clerk.

While working, she met a handsome salesman, Frank Blaschka, who became her husband and the love of her life. The two were married June 20, 1959. They settled in Seattle where they raised six children, Greg, Kim, Frank, Damian, Michael, and Mary. In October of 1969 the family relocated to Medford OR. Irma worked part time clerking at grocery stores, Lamont’s clothing store and found true joy being a hostess at Pioneer Village restaurant and Hometown Buffet. Mom was very sociable and enjoyed interacting with both co-workers and customers. She always loved a good practical joke, and no one was spared when she got a funny bone. Irma was also incredibly generous. She opened her home to strangers that dad would bring home, friends of the children or someone she felt needed a hot meal. She formed lifelong friendships with many former co-workers. Irma was also a devout Catholic and volunteered at Sacred Heart Church and often would have a priest or one of the sisters over for dinner. She and dad also were dedicated volunteers at St. Vincent De Paul.

Even through her battle with dementia and memory loss, mom never lost her sense of humor and loving kindness. She loved and kissed each of us whenever we visited. Mom’s face would glow upon seeing us and she would exclaim “I know you and I love you!”

Irma was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Francis A. Blaschka, son Francis L. Blaschka, son in law Joe Glidden, her 8 siblings and parents. She is survived by her children Greg Blaschka, Kim O’Gara (Steve), Damian Blaschka (Carol), Michael Blaschka (Kelly), Mary A Blaschka-Glidden, daughter in law Anne Blaschka, 10 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

Our family is grateful to the caregivers at Prestige Arbor Place Expressions Memory Care for the compassionate love and care they show to the residents in their care.

Funeral Mass to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Wednesday, November 15th at 10:00 am. Committal to follow, 1:00 pm at Eagle Point Veteran’s Cemetery.

Rest Well mom, your work is done.