Irene Theresa Chrislip

Irene Theresa Chrislip
January 19, 1930 – October 1, 2024
Heaven gained another Angel on October 1st, 2024. Irene Theresa Chrislip was born in Campbell, Ohio to Slovakian immigrants; Michael Joseph and Mary Elizabeth (Nagy) Rusnak. She was the middle child of TEN siblings. She worked as a legal secretary for Mayor Anthony Pacella of Campbell, Ohio. On August 21,1948 she married Melvin Tracey Chrislip, Jr. and they were active members of St. John's Slovak Church and the Married Peoples Club.
In 1963, along with their four children, her and Mel drove their station wagon with everything they owned to California and ended at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. Residing in Orange County; Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Santa Ana then lastly in San Clemente in the late 1970's.
In California, Irene was an active member of St. John the Baptist Church in Costa Mesa and Our Lady of Fatima Church in San Clemente, where she was also a Lector. After 22 years working for Pacific Telephone as a Line Assigner, Irene retired in 1985 with faith and family as her focus. It was through her support and efforts that led to the creation of the west coast Rusnak family's relocation. She was intently devoted to her Catholic faith and relentlessly committed to her entire family. She often spoke of her immediate family, parents, brothers and sisters and looked forward to the day they would be reunited in heaven. Playing cards (kings in the corner, poker, bridge, bingo) rummy tile, crossword puzzles, game shows, the San Clemente Senior Center and Norte Dame football were her passions but first and foremost was her faith. She watched the Catholic Mass, prayed the Rosary daily, received Holy Eucharist on every Sunday at home and continuously prayed for everyone. For decades her and Mel would travel to Las Vegas and enjoy visiting their Son Michael, their condo and playing the slot machines. She continued to enjoy Pala until earlier this year, after travel became difficult. She was knowledgeable about current affairs, politics and coherent even until her last moments of life.
Preceding in death was her husband, Mel and son, Michael. Also parents; Michael and Mary, (5) brothers; Emery, Michael, George, Steve, Ronald and (2) Sisters; Mary and Helen. Surviving are her son Ronald Chrislip, daughters; Regina (Rich) Hurley and Cathy Gronau (8) grandchildren (12) great-grandchildren and extended families. Surviving siblings of the original ten children are Marge (Ted) Chuparkoff and Regina Yurick, in Ohio.
Irene died a peaceful death at home, in bed. With two last breaths and at age of 94, she welcomed death.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt "thank you" of gratitude to Melecind "Mimi" Vasallo, her constant beloved caregiver as well as her many temporary caregivers who cared so gently and respectfully for her in these past few years. We are eternally grateful for your constant commitment to our Mom. Her neighbors and friends were also a delight, often bringing her flowers, calling and helping. Her family deeply thanks you all.
Viewing will be Friday, October 11th at 10 AM, Rosary at 10:30 AM and a Catholic Funeral Mass at 11 AM at Our Lady of Fatima Church. Reception luncheon to follow service immediately in the Church Hall. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Irene's charity, Sacred Heart Southern Missions at www.shsm.org or Catholic Mass Intentions.
Irene's final resting place will be at St. John's Cemetery in Ohio. There will be a Catholic Memorial Mass on October 26th 2024 and procession to her crypt where she will reside with her husband and son. For more information on the Ohio services please contact Wasko Family Funeral Group in Campbell at www.waskofamily.com