Irene T. Kolaski

Irene Theresa Kolaski, 89, passed peacefully on Friday, January 29, 2021.

Devoted Mom to Kenneth M. Kolaski (Cynthia), Kat Kolaski (Steven), and Denise M. Williams (Alvin), adoring Mom-Mom/Grandma to Allie (Joe), Catherine, Elizabeth, Brandon, Niki, Robbie, and Tony, and Great Grand Mom to Jayden, Irene is also survived by her youngest sister, Carol, and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Irene lovingly cared for her husband, Chester, through a prolonged illness until his death in 2015. They were married for 63 years. Irene was grateful to live in her own home independently, never forgetting to acknowledge and appreciate the neighbors and friends who helped make that possible.

Irene was the daughter of Polish immigrants, Anna and Gustav Drzewicki. She was one of six siblings, 5 sisters and a brother. Originally from the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia, in 1961, Irene and Chester moved to Northeast Philadelphia.

Irene was extremely social and was able strike up a conversation and make friends with anyone. She was famous for her butter and crescent cookies which she enjoyed sharing. Irene made the people in her life feel special by frequently sending greeting cards to celebrate every occasion.

Irene was proud of her home and kept it spotless. Irene was an avid gardener. She also took great pleasure in decorating her home for every holiday.

From about 1968 until 1990, while still raising her children, Irene worked as one of the telephone operators at Nazareth Hospital in Northeast Philadelphia. Her real life work stories were far better and more entertaining than the long running soap opera "General Hospital".

Irene was a woman of faith. She was an active parishioner at and loyal supporter of St. Jerome Church.

Relatives and friends are invited to greet Irene's family on Saturday, 2/6 /2021, from 9:30 am to 10:15 am at St. Jerome R.C. Church, 8100 Colfax Street, Philadelphia, PA 19136. A Memorial Mass for Irene will follow at 10:30 am. Masks are required and social distancing rules will be followed.

Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, a Celebration of Life gathering for Irene will be held at a later date to be announced. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, Mass cards or other gifts and remembrances, donations in memory of Irene T. Kolaski to The Parkinson Council, either online at https://theparkinsoncouncil.org/donate/
or by mail to The Parkinson Council, 555 City Avenue, Suite 480, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
would be greatly appreciated.