Irene E. Garlich

Garlich, Irene Eleanor (Peterson) (age 89) entered into rest on July 4, 2009. She was born in Hannaford, North Dakota on June 12, 1920. Irene moved to Wisconsin in 1938 and married Walter Garlich on 1939. Together they moved to Spokane in 1942. Irene was a homemaker, a salesclerk for the Crescent Department Store, and enjoyed being a Lutheran Foster Home for over 30 children. She was a member of the Sons of Norway and the Spokane Civic Theatre. In 1973, Irene and Walt moved to Loon Lake where she volunteered at the Loon Lake Food Pantry for 18 years and made many beautiful quilts and baby layettes, of which she donated with love. In 1999, they moved back to Spokane. Walter preceded Irene in death in 2008. She was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Carla Martin; brothers, Clarence Peterson and Lyle Peterson; sister, Vera Walen, and grandson, Timothy DeVine. Irene is survived by her son, Arlen Garlich; daughters, Rebecca (John) McCann and Lois (Larry) Collins; son-in-law, James Martin; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren. A memorial service will be 11:30 AM on Monday, July 13, 2009 at Pilgrim Lutheran Church 2733 W. Northwest Blvd., Spokane, WA. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Arlene’s name to Hospice of Spokane PO Box 2215 Spokane, WA 99210, Hospice House c/o Hospice of Spokane (please specify Hospice House with contribution) or to Pilgrim Lutheran Church. Private family interment preceded the service at Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery. Riplinger Funeral Home 4305 N. Division, Spokane, WA entrusted with arrangements.