Irene Marie Wilcott

Irene Marie Wilcott (nee Reath), 78, Wausau, died Saturday, February 21, 2009 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. She was born December 19, 1930 in Westchester PA to Clarence and Helen Reath. She was the 3rd oldest in a family of 12. Irene was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister; Marjorie Gay. She is survived by her brothers and sisters; Clarence 'Al' Reath Jr., Barbara Peters, Honey Kollar, Millie Droucher, Tony 'Duke' Reath, Bobby Reath, Richard 'Dickie' Reath, Dutchie Reath, Marilyn Daisy, and Tootie Moody. Irene leaves behind her loving husband, Clarke Joseph, her daughter, Susan Anne Wilcott with her husband Matthew Millar and her son, Joseph Mark and his fiancAC.e, Stacy Heck. Irene proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1952 to 1959. While in the service, she played for the Air Forces National Women's basketball team. She met and married Clarke in Paris France, where he was also stationed in the U.S. Navy. Being a Navy wife allowed Irene to travel the world and expose her children to cultures few get the opportunity to experience. She was a long time member of Trinity Lutheran Church with her husband Clarke. Irene worked alongside Clarke at the Rib Mountain Ski and Golf facility for many years. Irene enjoyed bowling, golfing and shooting pool in leagues around the city. Irene returned to school at the age of 52. She graduated with a degree in Information Systems, much to the delight of her proud husband and children. Upon retiring, she volunteered at Community Health Care Wausau Hospital and served as junior vice commander and chaplain of the local Disabled American Veterans chapter. She was voted Wausau's Citizen of the year for 2003, an indication of her long and dedicated service to the community she grew to call home. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 26, 2009 at Restlawn Memorial Chapel mausoleum, Wausau. Rev. Gary Schultz will officiate. Friends may call Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the mausoleum. The American Legion Post #10 will conduct military rites following the memorial service. Her family would like to send a special thank you to the nurses and caretakers in the Palliative Care Unit at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital. We are grateful for your superior care to Mom and to us. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com