Irene Zuniga Bell, 91, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Born on February 29, 1932 in Williams, Arizona, she later moved to Fresno California at the age of 10, when her parents, Inez and Frank Zuniga relocated their growing family.
In 1959, after starting her own family, Irene began employment with the Pacific Telesis Group (Pacific Bell), where she rose to the level of Engineer. In this position, she was given the opportunity to live and work for several years in the San Luis Obispo/Atascadero area, which she loved. Always commended for her strong work ethic, determination to succeed in increasingly complex projects, and with much respect from her colleagues, Irene eventually retired after 25 years of service, selflessly returning to Fresno to care for her elderly parents. After their passing, she moved to Alta Loma, CA where she resided with her daughter Patricia, and son-in-law, James Barnett.
Irene was dedicated to her family, loved to travel, and was immersed in social justice causes, particularly those involving Native American Rights, Children, Animal Protection, and Catholic ministries. She held a strong and special devotion to the Blessed Mother and to the Holy Rosary which she prayed daily. On a lighter side she never missed an opportunity to eat ice cream, nibble on chocolate, dote on her beloved pups, or hit the slot machines in any nearby casino.
Irene is survived by her 4 daughters, Kathy Kaufman, Sandra Sotelo, Patricia Barnett (husband James), Yvonne Velarde and ; 9 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren; 4 siblings Frank Zuniga, Anthony Zuniga (wife Carolyn), Mary Lou Zuniga, and Koke Resler Portnoy (husband Ronald); and many nephews and nieces.
Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Tommie Arzate, and brother John Zuniga.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her Visitation from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at Whitehurst Funeral Home, 836 E Nees Ave, Fresno, CA. Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 6:00 PM. Mass of Catholic Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 31 at 10:00 AM at The Shrine of St. Therese, 855 E Floradora Ave., Fresno, CA. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery, 264 N Blythe Ave, Fresno, CA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Irene’s memory to St. Labre Indian School Ashland, MT https://www.stlabre.org/, or to your local chapter of the ASPCA.
