Irene Berlinger

Irene Gertrude Karpinsky, daughter of Lawrence and Gertrude (Loher) Karpinsky, was born October 24, 1925 in Alberta , Minnesota . Irene grew up in the Alberta and Chokio area and attended and graduated from Chokio High School in 1943. On August 30, 1955, she was united in marriage to Martin F. Berlinger at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Chokio. Following their marriage, the couple lived south of Chokio, where they farmed and raised their two sons, Marty and Leo. Martin died on January 6, 1998. Irene continued to live on the farm until the time of her death.

Irene was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Chokio where she also served on Christian Mother’s. She enjoyed gardening and she especially enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Irene died on Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at her home near Chokio. She lived to reach the age of 84 years.

She is survived by two sons: Marty (Barb) Berlinger of Fargo, ND and Leo (Maria) Berlinger of Chokio; three grandchildren: Martina Berlinger of Grand Forks, ND, Cydney Berlinger of Fargo, ND and Amy Berlinger of Chokio; two sisters: Edna Johnson of Wheaton and RoseMary Karpinsky of Graceville; one brother: Herbert (Joan) Karpinsky of North Mankato and sister-in-law: Mary Berlinger of Chokio. She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; two brothers: Adrian and Leroy Karpinsky and brother-in-law: Steven Berlinger.

Pallbearers for the service are: Irene’s grandchildren: Martina Berlinger, Cydney Berlinger and Amy Berlinger and Irene’s god children: Cheryl Danberry, Steven Berlinger and Breanna McNally. Honorary pallbearers are Irene’s god child: Amanda Hill and all who called Irene Friend. JoAnne Foley will serve as organist for the service with Tom Horning providing special music. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.