Irene Eve Sarna, 66, 11520 E. 50 N, Knox, Ind., where she had lived since 1980, died in the Catherine Kasper Life Center, Donaldson, following an illness, at 12:45 p.m. on Sunday, August 19, 2001.
Born in Chicago on April 1, 1935, she was the daughter of Peter and Caroline Szczepanski Amanowicz. Irene came to Plymouth from Chicago in 1938 as a child of three years old. She received her grade and high school education at Ancilla Domini.
In September of 1953, at the age of 18, Irene went to work for the Cressner Abstract and Title Company. Morris Cressner said of her that she was the first, and the best, secretary he ever had.
She was his right-hand and was extremely proficient in her work. Diligent, with attention to detail, Irene was admired and trusted as one of the best in the field of abstract examiners. She was made a partner in the business 25 years ago and upon Cressner?s death became the sole owner.
On May 16, 1980, in St. Michael?s Roman Catholic Church, Irene and Cyril M. Sarna were married. Cyril died on June 16, 1997.
A lifelong caregiver to many in her family and community, Irene?s quiet conviction to her faith and benevolence to those in need was well known. She expected very little in return.
She had a great interest in flying. She loved birds and nature. A devout member of St. Michael?s, she was also an associate of Ancilla Domini.
Irene is survived by James J. Sarna, her caregiver and step-son, Knox, and two step-daughters, Arlene E. Sarna, Elmhurst, Ill., and Marie Hollon, Knox.
Six step-grandchildren, several step-great-grandchildren and two nieces and nephews also survive together with Betty J. Sarna, a daughter-in-law, Plymouth, and Genevieve Apicella, a sister, living in Chicago.
Irene was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and Sylvester R. Sarna, a step-son.
Visitation with her family will be on Wednesday, August 22, 2001, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Catherine Kasper Chapel, Donaldson. A Rosary and Evening Vigil will take place a 7 p.m. in the chapel. Visitation will continue on Thursday from 9 ? 11 a.m. in the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St. Plymouth.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 23, 2001, in St. Michael?s Roman Catholic Church. Father Anthony Gillespie, pastor of the church, will officiate.
Burial will be in New Oakhill Cemetery, Plymouth.
Memorial gifts may be made to Ancilla Domini or to St. Michael?s Mission 2000.
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