Irene Loretta Grimm

Irene Loretta Grimm, 90, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, September 4, 2025, at Heritage Assisted Living in Eau Claire, where she had lived since 2019.

Irene was born December 5, 1934, in the Fairchild area of Eau Claire County to Robert and Alma (Bremer) Lange. She was raised with nine siblings and spent her early years in rural Augusta, attending Bear's Grass Country School. In third grade, her family moved into the city of Augusta, where she completed her education and graduated from Augusta High School in 1953.

During and after high school, Irene worked as a waitress for her sister and brother-in-law at the Fred Kawell restaurant, later taking positions at Shed Brown and Hanson Café both in Eau Claire. It was at Hanson's Café that she met Richard Grimm. The two married on August 26, 1967, at Concordia Lutheran Church and made their home in Eau Claire. After selling their home the couple moved into Heritage Assisted Living in Eau Claire.

Although Irene never learned to drive, she navigated life with independence and joy, often riding her bicycle or waiting for Richard to return from work. Together, they shared a deep dedication to Concordia Lutheran Church, volunteering on the Altar Guild, folding bulletins, decorating bulletin boards, and helping maintain both the inside and outside of the church. They also enjoyed walks, thrift sales, and open houses.

Richard passed away in July 2021, and Irene remained at Heritage Assisted Living until her passing.

She is survived by her sister, Bernice Kawell of Eau Claire; brothers-in-law Kenny Ekern of Cameron and Roger( JoAnne) Grimm of Eagle River, MN; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by her parents; brother Bill Lange; sisters Evelyn Brummond, Goldine Schiefelbein, Maxine Honadel-Reetz, Esther Newton, Margaret Giguere, Betty Lighthizer, Geraldine "Gerry" Ekern, and Rosella in infancy.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Concordia Lutheran Church with burial in Rest Haven Cemetery both in Eau Claire.

Friends may call one hour prior to services at the church.

The family is assisted by Anderson Funeral Home in Augusta.

The family would like to thank the staff and residents of Heritage Assisted Living for the six wonderful years she shared with them, as well as St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care and support shown towards Irene.

Online condolences can be left at www.andersonfhaugusta.com