Irene E. (Gansz) Flowers, 93, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family.
Born on August 8, 1931 in Kampsville, IL, Irene was the daughter of August and Emma (Hartman) Gansz.
She married the love of her life, Kenneth F. Flowers on March 27, 1948 in Carrollton, IL. Together they shared 70 years of marriage until Kenneth's death on May 9, 2018.
Irene dedicated many years of service working in the cafeteria at East Alton-Wood River High School, where she was known for her kindness and strong work ethic. She enjoyed spending time traveling, participating in church activities and clubs, and preparing incredible home-cooked meals that brought her family together around the table.
A devoted member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wood River, Irene's faith was an important part of her life. She will be remembered for her warmth, her generosity, and her great love for her family.
She is survived by three children, Donald (Brenda) Flowers of Springfield, IL, Peggy (Robert) Searles of Wood River, Patricia (Donald) McReynolds of Bethalto; seven grandchildren, Clinton (Sara) Flowers, Casey (Shaun) Murray, Mitchell (Caitlin) Flowers, Robert (Christina) Searles, Carrie Searles, Kelly (Nick) Bramlet, and Christopher (Lindsey) McReynolds; 12 great grandchildren, Nickolus (Erica) and Luke Westerhold, Emily (Conner) Hagerty, Olivia and Abigail Murray, Carter Towler, Collin and Aunicka Flowers, Kennedy and Cohen Flowers, and Maverick and Nash McReynolds; and a great-great granddaughter, Rosemary Westerhold.
Irene was preceded in death by her parents; husband; two brothers, Fred and Frank Gansz; and three sisters, Helen Briggs, Loretta Ludwig, and Alberta McMillan.
Visitation will be from 9:30 am until time of service at 11 am, Wednesday, May 7 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wood River. Pastor David Schultz will officiate.
Burial will follow in Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Memorials are suggested to William BeDell ARC in Wood River or St. Paul Lutheran Church.
