Irene T Vanderen

Irene (Greges) Van Deren died peacefully on January 28th, at the age of 77. Born on May 11th, 1947, in Mount Vernon, NY, to John and Theresa Greges, Irene was a devoted mother, daughter and sister, spending her childhood with many cousins and friends from school. After graduating from Resurrection High School in Rye, NY, Irene attended Berkeley Secretarial School and worked for several years as an executive assistant in New York City. Irene married Edwin (Smokey) Van Deren in Mount Vernon in 1970. They moved to Wayne, NJ, where they lived for more than 45 years and raised two children, Lauren and David. Irene finished her career at the Wayne Boys and Girls Club, as executive assistant and "Miss Irene" was beloved by coworkers and club members. Irene devoted time to many organizations, such as the North Jersey Developmental Center and Amity Club, and as her children grew, she could be seen on a sports field cheering them on. She spent summers with family and friends in Highland Lakes, NJ or Jersey Shore and was a loyal fan of the New York Rangers and Mets. She looked forward to visiting her son and daughter-in-law in Ohio, as well as her treasured sister, Ginny. Irene will be remembered for her kindness and wonderful smile. Irene’s Funeral Mass will be Friday February 14, 2025, at St Peter and Casimir Church 32 State St Westfield at 10AM with burial to follow in St Thomas Cemetery in West Springfield. The Toomey-O’Brien Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.