Irene Jean Lee (Bestemor)
January 5, 1933- July 16, 2023, at the age of 90
Rochester, N.Y.; Irene is predeceased by her mother, Ingborg Pedersen and her father Jahn Pedersen. Her sister, Elsie Dee and her son Joseph Lee. She is survived by her children Richard Lee, Barbara Poole, John Lee and Brenda Lee (Janice) Her grandchildren, Sabrina Carpenter, Brenda Poole (Mark), Joseph Kodetsky and Brianna Kodetsky. Her great grandchildren, Allison Carpenter, Mateo Poole, Abbigayle Carpenter and Denali Shoulders. Her nieces and nephews, Laura Larson, Brian Dee (Donna), Jayne Hogan (John) and many extended family members and friends.
Irene was a lifelong member of Sons of Norway where she celebrated being the first generation Norwegian American. Irene loved Norwegian culture and passed down this love to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved to make Norwegian cookies for Christmas every year and she would give them out as gifts. She attended the 17Th of May parade in Brooklyn almost yearly where she enjoyed the day with family and members of her lodge.
Not only was Irene a loving Mother, Aunt, Grandmother and friend. She was a registered Nurse at Maimonides Hospital in Brooklyn N.Y. She worked in the pediatric ward for decades. She just loved children and would light up when any child was around.
Irene truly loved to dance. She would go out weekly to do everything from country line dancing to salsa. She also enjoyed playing cards with friends and going to Atlantic city. She will truly be missed by all. Forever in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following organizations in her memory: Saint Jude Childrens Research Hospital or Sons of Norway Henrick Ibsen Lodge 3-393 USO (uso.org)
A private celebration of life for family and friends to be announced at a later date.