Ireen Wetzel

Ireen Frances Wetzel, 78, a long-time resident of Missoula, MT, died on August 10, 2025. She is survived by her daughter Lissa Ploof, brothers John and Kurt, and sister-in-law Wendy Robertson.

She was preceded in death by parents John and Evelyn Wetzel.

Ireen attended high school in Little Falls, MN, where she was a varsity sports cheerleader. After graduation she enrolled at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, majoring in art.

She had mental health issues, which often overshadowed her working career, although she was able to live independently and focus on her passion of creating artwork. Numerous of her art pieces and paintings were displayed in local and state venues, earning her ribbons and recognition. Besides her artwork, she enjoyed gardening, bird feeding, and attending and performing in the University of Montana dance classes. With friends she travelled to Europe and the throughout the U.S.

Many thanks to her neighbors and friends who have been most kind and generous with their time in helping Ireen over the years. Thanks also to people with social services that allowed her to remain in her home, and for the care given to her by the Hope Hospice Center in Missoula.

A family memorial service will be held in Little Falls at a future date. Memorials in Ireen's honor may be sent to New Directions Wellness Center, 113 Skaggs, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59612, or the Mississippi River Conservancy, P.O. BOX 2611, La Crosse, WI 54602.