Irene Elizabeth Linduski McCormick

Irene Elizabeth Linduski McCormick, age 89, went to be with the Lord peacefully in her home in Fullerton, California surrounded by her family on September 3, 2022. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Irene was born in Bricelyn, Minnesota to Hobart and Eva Leland on March 5, 1933. Irene was raised on a modest farm with her three brothers and one sister before moving into “town” in her teen years, enjoying in-home electricity and plumbing. Irene attended Wynonna State College, and was later introduced to Edwin Linduski by her brother Jimmy. Ed and Jimmy were stationed in Japan where they were good friends as they served in the Air Force together. Irene and Ed married in 1955 and moved to La Mirada, California and later to Fullerton where they raised their four daughters. Irene and Ed, who passed away in 1987, left their family a legacy of unconditional love and devotion.

In 1992, Irene married Cecil (Mac) McCormick. For decades their home has served as a family gathering place for traditions, celebrations, and delicious meals. She was the cornerstone for her constantly growing family. Always looking forward to the next party, Irene used her gifts of hospitality and planning to entertain large groups in her home and to organize events in the community and church family. Irene’s passion for adventure manifested in travels to numerous countries with Mac, family, and friends. She enjoyed attending luncheons with her girlfriends, and philanthropic, art, and music events around town. Despite her first cancer diagnosis thirty years ago, Irene’s faith, love for her family and irrepressible will to live life fully gave her the driving force to persevere through years of treatment. She drew closer to the Lord during this time through prayer, devotions, Bible Study, and church. Irene was known for her kind and encouraging spirit to all.  

Irene led a life of servanthood through her philanthropic causes, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Distinguished Citizen Award from Fullerton Chamber of Commerce in 2001.  She served as President of the National Charity League Fullerton Chapter, Ball Chairman of Damas de Caridad supporting St. Jude Memorial Foundation of Fullerton, President of Celeste Guild of Orange County Pacific Symphony Orchestra, President of Laguna Road Elementary School PTA, and President of Sunny Hills High School PTA. Irene also devoted countless hours to the Assistance League of Fullerton, Children’s Home Society, Girl Scouts of America, Founding Board Member of MAMM Alliance for the Performing Arts supporting CSUF, Music Associates of CSUF, Fullerton Civic Light Opera Guild, Friends of Jazz, Founding Board Member of Les Amis de Femme supporting the Women’s Transitional Living Center of Fullerton, Daughter’s of the American Revolution, and President of USC Inner-sorority Mother’s Club. Over the span of her life, Irene was an active member at Mount Olive Lutheran Church La Mirada, First Lutheran Church Fullerton, and Christ Lutheran Church Brea.

Irene was predeceased by her son, Steven John Linduski, first husband, Edwin Donald Linduski, brother, Norman Leland, and brother-in-law, Virgil Mutschler. She is remembered and cherished by her husband, Cecil McCormick; 4 daughters, their spouses, and step-son: Diane & Allen Regehr, Karen & Dorcey Abshier, Kathy & David Agarth, Nancy & David Gribble, and John McCormick; 15 grandchildren and their spouses: Nathan, Jonathan & Kirsten, Andrew, Katelyn & Cody, Kellianne & Ramsey, Karli & Bobby, Dorcey & Olivia, Julie & Casey, Kim, Katie & Graham, Josh & Kayla, Matthew, Michael & Laura, Daniel, and Nicole; and 14 great-grandchildren: Evelyn, Charleigh, Beau, Raye, Henrietta, Bert, Teddy, William, Audrey, Ellis, Reese, Taylor, Teigan, and Mya; along with her brothers and sisters: Jimmy & Eileen Leland, Mike & Susan Leland, and Pat Mutschler; nieces and nephews; cousins; and beloved friends.

A memorial service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church 820 W Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821 on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at 11am to celebrate and remember a faithful servant and a life well lived. Luncheon immediately following service.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” Psalm 23:6

Remembrances may be made to Christ Lutheran Church Brea or a charity of your choice.