Irene Banzhaf

Irene A. Banzhaf (88), of Marshalltown, Iowa, passed away on May 18th 2015, at the Villa Del Sol Nursing and Rehab Center in Marshalltown, Iowa, under the care of Iowa River Hospice, surrounded by her family. Per her wishes, no services are planned at this time. Her family will have a private gathering to celebrate her life. Memorials may be directed to the Iowa River Hospice. For condolences or questions please visit: www.mitchellfh.com. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Irene and her family. Phone 641-844-1234. Irene Ann Banzhaf was born on February 16th, 1927, to Leo A. and Lucille A. (Goodman) Baie, in Rhodes, Iowa. Irene was raised in Rhodes, graduating from Rhodes High School with the class of 1944. She attended Thompson Beauty School in Des Moines, Iowa, that following year. On November 30th, 1946 at the parsonage in State Center, she and Robert Bob S. Banzhaf were united in marriage for 48 years, until Roberts passing in 1994. Together they made their home and raised their children in Marshalltown, Iowa. Irene worked at Western Manufacturing in Marshalltown, Iowa until her retirement in 1989. She loved spending time with her family, cooking and playing scat or cribbage. Many people remember her as the red headed lady who loved to walk. On hot summer days, she would make her great-granddaughters happy by walking them down Main St. in Marshalltown, to Lily Maes to get an ice cream or chocolate. Irene was a joyous woman who loved to laugh and hear others do the same. Left to cherish her memory are, children; Connie (Tim) Westphal, Gary (Cindy) Banzhaf, grandchildren; Cheri Westphal, Stephanie Nardone, Emily Liberty, great-grandchildren; Autumn (Curtis) Sewell, Heidi Whitmore, Cooper Gilge, Samantha Nardone, Owen Liberty, great great-granddaughter; Ruby Pearl Sewell, brother; Leland (Norma) Baie and 7 nieces and nephews. In death, Irene rejoins her husband; Bob, and her parents; Leo and Lucille.