Irene C. Willard

Irene Carmel Willard (nee DePalma) mother, Nana, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2024, at the age of 93. Born on February 20, 1931, in St. Paul, MN, she lived a life filled with love, and laughter.

Irene is survived by her children, Karen “Kiki” Howe, Mark Willard (Betty) and her grandchildren, Noelle Howe (Heather) and Brandon Howe (fiancé Kelly Klemens) great-grandchildren, Ellie, Landan and Taven Howe and 14 bonus great grandchildren who will cherish her memory forever. She also leaves 2 brothers and their families as well as many cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband Marsellieus (Marty Willard) and daughter Michelle Willard, parents Angelo “Cookie” DePalma and Amelia Marie (Molly) DePalma (nee Peterfeso) as well as numerous relatives and lifelong close friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, August 12, 2024, at Kok Funeral Home 7676 80th St. S.; Cottage Grove, MN. Visitation will start at 1 pm with a Celebration of Life at 2pm. There will be a private burial on August 13, 2024. She had her arrangements already made and one note was “No SAD songs!” Please come ready to share stories and memories as we move through this challenging time.

She spent the past several years at Norris Square in Cottage Grove, where she was loved by staff and residents alike and we heard from many people there that she was like The Mayor of Norris Square, getting people involved in activities and outings as well as helping to design and plant a flower garden. She loved birds, flowers and butterflies. She was well known for her outstanding cooking of her native Italian foods and enjoyed trips “up north”, outings with family and friends and penny slots at the casino.

Her legacy of love, friendship and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Rest in peace, Irene.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family.