Irene M. Writz

Irene M. Writz, 100, Colby, formerly of Athens died Friday, April 25, 2014 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Marshfield. She was born May 23, 1913 in Wuertzburg, daughter of the late Peter and Francis (Boser) Ellenbecker. On October 19, 1933 she married Jacob "Jake" Writz at St. John Catholic Church, Wuertzburg. He preceded her in death on November 21, 1994. Irene was a loving mother and homemaker, and an active member of the Homemakers Club, hosting parties and helping with activities in Athens including the Fair and St. Anthony's Parish. She was an avid gardener, card player, loved reading novels, and enjoyed bowling at the Athens Community Hall where her team won many league championships. Irene loved to tell the story," I knocked the pins down and Jake set them back up." Irene had many part-time jobs from retail to school cook. Irene was very active all her life, taking trips to Alaska, Arizona and California long after she turned 80. She also cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. They enjoyed listening to stories and sharing a hearty laugh. She also valued many wonderful friendships throughout her many years. Survivors include her children, Geraldine (James) Schave, Alaska, Shirley Bergman, Athens, Debbie (Russell) Klinger, Bayfield and Peggy (Gary) Guralski, Monroe, 12 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and 5 great great grandchildren. Irene is further survived by her siblings, Isabelle Writz, Wausau, Hazel Slauza, California, Ray Ellenbecker, Athens and Earl Ellenbecker, Stratford and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, one infant son, son, Allan and her siblings, Peter, Oliver, Melvin, Francis, Harvey, Delores, Donnie, Loretta, Viola and infant brother. The funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens. The Rev. Paul Hoffman will preside. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Athens. Friends may call on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com