Irene Therese Maher

Irene Maher was born and raised in Lewiston, Maine. She was one of twelve children born to Joseph Leclair and Florida Bosse. One of her first jobs was working at her sister's restaurant, the Chick A Dee, in Turner, Maine. She also worked at various office jobs and did some part time modeling for Montgomery Wards and a photo studio. In her early 20’s she decided to move to California and got a job working as a switch board operator at the Associated phone company. She reconnected with an old boyfriend from Maine. His name was Richard “Bud” Maher, and he was in the Marines. They dated for a year then in 1952 because Bud was being sent to Japan, they decided to get married. During their years of marriage, they had 4 children, Debbie, Elaine, Scott and Joe.

Irene was a stay-at-home mom but filled her time with volunteering at her children’s school and their various activities. She also became an excellent seamstress making many of her children’s school clothes, prom dresses and their Halloween costumes. In later years her grandchildren were also able to enjoy home made Halloween costumes by their grandmother. She also started babysitting for friends and then eventually her own grandchildren.

In 1974 Irene and Bud divorced. Shortly before the divorce Irene started working for Fabric King. She eventually became District Manager and enjoyed working there for almost 20 years. After retiring she was able to spend more time enjoying her favorite past time doing crossword puzzles, playing bingo, online poker, playing cards and going to casinos to play the slots. She also looked forward to trips to Maine to visit her family. In between visits she enjoyed long phone conversations with her East coast family.
In 2023 Irene was diagnosed with dementia. She was able to remain in her Lakewood home being cared for by family until with a heavy heart she was placed in hospice care. A month later Irene came to the end of her life’s journey at 98 years. She is survived by her 4 children, 6 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and 2 great -great grandchildren.

She will be remembered as one of the most caring and generous people. Because of her faith and strength, she survived two bouts of colon cancer. Even in her state of dementia she worried about other people’s needs. Irene’ family is extremely grateful and blessed for the love and care she provided them throughout her life. She will be missed terribly.