Irene M. Aven

Dateline: Saratoga Springs, NY
Irene M. Aven, age 78, died peacefully on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Home of the Good Shepherd, with her loving family by her side. Irene was born on December 26, 1945, in Niskayuna, NY and was the daughter of the late Gladys Jones.
After high school, Irene attended HVCC and UAlbany. She enjoyed a fulfilling career as a dental hygienist in Schenectady for several years, and then stayed at home with her loving family. All her life, Irene adored the serenity of the outdoors, especially oceans and lakes, as she enjoyed her homes in Lake George. Irene's spirit was one of a kind and she made an impact on everyone she knew throughout her life. She was completely spontaneous, strong willed, and determined no matter what endeavors she faced.
At her heart, Irene loved to party and never missed an opportunity to adorn herself in fabulous ensembles. These good times brought even better friends along the way, whose needs she always put before her own. Her selflessness was admirable as she made a difference every day with her readiness to help without hesitation. Irene kept an active lifestyle right until the end, starting her days early and filling them with routines of exercise, camaraderie, aerobic dancing, and especially music of all genres. She greatly enjoyed her activities at Home of the Good Shepherd.
Irene is survived by her loving son Rodney (Rebecca) and their children Rylee and Carlee Gwiazdowski; and her son Christopher Gwiazdowski; her dear brother William (Janice) Carter and sister Rebecca Littmann; her wonderful niece Kaylie Cagnina and nephews Kane Cagnina, Lucas Carter, Anthony and Michael Guagliardo; and her great-nieces Ella and Rose and great-nephew Shepard. Irene is also survived by her best friend and partner in crime, Virginia Martino.
Irene is preceded in death by her husband Dr. Manuel Aven, and her brother Joseph Kownack.
Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Friday, December 27, 2024, from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, at Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Road, Ballston Lake, NY.
Words of reflection and remembrance will be shared at 12:00 Noon, at the funeral home.
Interment will follow at St. Peter's Cemetery, Saratoga, NY.
Irene's family would like to thank all the kindhearted and noble doctors, nurses, and staff of Community Hospice and Home of the Good Shepherd in Saratoga Springs, for their special care for Irene, going above and beyond to ensure she received the proper treatment and compassion in the comfort of her own home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, 733 Third Ave, Suite 510, New York, NY 10017.