Irene Inez Lenz
February 15, 1921 - February 9, 2009
Obituary
Irene Inez Lenz
Born in Juneau, Alaska February 15, 1921 passed away on February 9, 2009, in the presence of family.
Irene is preceded in death by husband of 64 years, Herbert J. Lenz in 2004, granddaughter Shannon in 1986 and Kenny West in 1959, whom she raised as her own. Irene grew up in Juneau, Alaska where her Grandfather, Richard T. Harris was co-founder, a fact she was very proud of. Irene was also proud of her Tlingit-Athabascan heritage. She enjoyed attending the Juneau – Douglas reunion picnic which is held in Seattle annually.
Irene and Herbert moved their family to the Aberdeen, Hoqium area and then resided in Burien for 52 years. Irene and Herb had open hearts and an open door. They often had people in and out, and never turned down someone in need of a place to stay. They were considered Mom and Dad to many and her smile will be forever remembered in our hearts.
An avid Bingo player, Irene found many friends in the Bingo hall, her favorite number was 13, so we found it fitting to have the celebration of her life on Friday the 13th.
Irene is the Mother of 6, Grandmother of 16 and Great grandmother of 24. The celebration of Irene’s life will be held at Bonney-Watson Washington Memorial, 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac on Friday February 13, 2009 at 12:30 PM. A reception following.
Please sign the online memorial guestbook at www.bonneywatson.com.
Family of IreneTootsie. I am the neice of GloriaBardiBlevins one of Irene’s closest friends while young and living in Juneau, Ak. My Aunt Gloria lives in Carson City, Nevada with her daughter Virginia Gutenburg previously of Las Vegas. Our thoughts and prayers go to your family. Their address is 305A Street, Carson City, NV 89706. I had talked several times to Loren & Tootsie from Hillsboro, Oregon where I live and mentioned who I was the daughter of Ralph V. Bardi of Juneau, Alaska, my grandmother was Anna Brensdal of Juneau. We are Tlingit Raven.
To our sweetest cous’l…as much as we miss you here, we are happy for you to be now with your beloved Herb, cousins Chuck and CII. With love forever and always in our hearts, Jerry Lee, James, Shireen & Dr. Matt and Mo
I will always remember Irene as one who welcomed me into her home anytime. She,and Herb often took me in when things were bad in my own world. At the Lenz home, we girls Lorrie’s friends could always count on lots of food,fun,and loud laughter! Those are precious memories.
Irene was a loyal friend to many. I know she will be missed. My heart goes out to Charlotte, Herbie, Loren, Mary, Brice, Lorrie and their families. Love, Patti
The Harris family Of the Late Fred Harris of Anchorage, AK send their condolences to the Lenz Family. “Toots” Irene was one of our most favorite relatives. She was well remembered by all for her generousity, her staight forth no nonsense manner of talking, and of course for bingo.
The Harris family Of the Late Fred Harris of Anchorage, AK send their condolences to the Lenz Family. “Toots” Irene was one of our most favorite relatives. She was well remembered by all for her generousity, her staight forth no nonsense manner of talking, and of course for bingo.
Our hearts are with you at this time of loss.Irene left alot of love with everyone she knew,and alot of very funny storys. We will miss her very much. Knowing her, she has already setting up the Bingo tables in heaven.
Our love to all of you.
I love my Aunt Toots! I will miss her very much! She was an awesome lady. May she rest in peace with Uncle Herb.
I am so sorry for your loss. Irene was truly a loving and kind person. We always loved it when you came to visit. Her laugh always brought so much joy. I’m sure she and Herb are joyfully re-united. My thoughts are with all of you. Maybe some day we will all get together again.
Carol Anne Tanner Smith
Your loving nephew. Condolences to all family members. May your memories help you through this hard time.
I send my love and fond memories of Irene to Irene’s sweet family. We had great fun together and called each other Cous’l cousin ever since we were girls. I wish my health were good enough to travel to be with you all, but know I am thinking of you and send my love always. Ella
Although I met her only briefly, Irene had a wonderfully gracious and sweet smile. I will always remember her by it. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Ginger, PTA, Highline Home Health
Rest in peace, Irene, will miss your rolling laughter.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We love you so much and if theres anything you need we are only a phone call away. Margo,Monte and Marcie