Irene G. Kissling

Irene G. Kissling, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away on June 15, 2025, at Phoebe Berks, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and resilience. Born on March 31, 1933, in Penn Township, Irene was the daughter of the late Elmer W. and Emma M. (Stiely) Balthaser. She grew up surrounded by the beauty of her rural Pennsylvania home, where she lived all her life until moving to Phoebe Berks 8 years ago. 

Irene was a 1951 graduate of Penn Bernville High School. She worked diligently throughout her life at various esteemed establishments, including Fein & Glass Shoe Factory, Reading Hospital, Brandt's Pattern, Precision Pattern Shop, and Berks Vo-Tech. Irene also volunteered with the Mt. Pleasant Fire Company where she served as the Secretary for many years, she also dedicated her time to the Ladies Auxiliary where she served as an Officer. Her commitment to her work and volunteering was a reflection of her strong character and unwavering spirit, traits that she exemplified in all aspects of her life.

But beyond her undeniable work ethic, Irene was perhaps best known for her boundless love for her family. She was the devoted mother of two children, Judy Dalious, wife of Charles, and Barry L. Kissling, husband of Pamela. Her family meant everything to her, and her pride shone through in the accomplishments of her grandchildren—Bryan Kissling, husband of Elizabeth; Kristin Hoffman, wife of Brad; Brielle Wertz, wife of Cody; and Ethan Dalious, fiancé of Erika; Great-grandchildren, Reed, Nora, Easten, and Riley, along with a large extended family and many nieces and nephews who brought her immense joy.

Irene's faith was a cornerstone of her life; she was a dedicated member of Bern UCC, where she sang in the choir, lifting spirits and touching lives with her voice. Her enthusiasm for life was palpable in her hobbies; she enjoyed visiting Ocean City, MD, playing Bingo, and hosting family gatherings, where laughter and love thrived.

Though Irene experienced profound grief with the passing of her husband, Melvin L. Kissling, with whom she shared an enduring bond for 45 years, her strength remained evident throughout her life. She also mourned the loss of her parents and siblings, Verna Maderia and Norman Stiely, whose memories she carried in her heart.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Irene’s life on June 20, 2025. The viewing will be held at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Bern Church, 3196 Bernville Road in Leesport, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bern Church Music Department, 3196 Bernville Road, Leesport, PA 19533, or to the Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF), Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes, 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10281.