Irene Kala McDowell

Born at home on Oct 1, 1926, in Wolverton, MN to parents Simon and Borgny (Garnes) Gjerde

Irene married James G. McDowell on August 26, 1946, in Detroit Lakes, MN and they were lovingly married for 50 years until Dad died in 1996. She continued to live in the family home in Renton WA, with her youngest son Kevin until 2020.

Mom was active with Renton Parks and volunteered for many years. She loved to read, write letters, and visit with family and friends. Her phone never stopped ringing.

Irene leaves behind children Patricia Childs of Kent WA, Steven (Ceylon) McDowell of Liberty NE, Cathryn (David) Sackett of Long Branch WA, Terri (Edward) Reiter of Shelton WA, Kevin McDowell of Liberty NE, and many loving nieces, nephews, neighbors, and friends.

She was a loving grandmother and will be missed by her Grandchildren; Jeremy, Tim, Kim, Chris, Kala, Jeffrey, and Eric as well as 7 Great grandchildren, and their families.

She was preceded in death by her husband James, son Michael J., Son in Law Glen, and Granddaughters Angela Irene and Tara.

The family would like to say a special Thank you to the staff at Haven in Allyn for the loving care they shared with us all.