Irene Lucy Stechschulte

HOUSTON, TEXAS - Irene Lucy Stechschulte peacefully passed from this life on Thursday, October 20, 2022, surrounded by her loving family. Irene was born September 15, 1929, to Andrew and Matilda Altenburger, in Ottoville, Ohio. She married William "Wid" Stechschulte on November 3, 1956 and spent forty-one years as his loving and dedicated wife. He preceded her in death on February 21, 1998.

Irene spoke of her childhood often and fondly. Her life, even at a young age, was full of energy, hard work, and great love. She loved her siblings and always said how she never remembered walking anywhere, she just ran. Irene never outgrew her active nature; she loved by doing acts of service and spending time with people.

It was at her kitchen table where family and friends were welcomed warmly, and always served a hot cup of coffee. There she spent time listening, as listening was one of her most profound and natural gifts. At this table countless rousing card games were played, meals were served, strawberry jam and brownies were prepared and devoured, remedies were applied, prayers were always said; the warmest memories were created at this center of her home.

Everything Irene did was with great care, from folding laundry to holding one's hand in hers when comfort was needed most. Mother Teresa famously said, "we can do no great things, only small things with great love." This is how Irene lived, her love was not thunderous or loud, but shown in hard work that was quiet, ever-listening, resilient and constant. Irene was a true and faithful Catholic, prayed fervently and patiently and was a beautiful example of a humble and faithful pilgrim here on Earth.

Her last years were spent in Houston, Texas near her daughter and her family. She was a constant at every family event and lived for the moments she could hold the dimpled hands of her great-grandchildren. As a woman who was full of authentic humility, who never saw herself as extraordinary, she meant the world to her family. She was a devoted wife, caring mother, playful grandmother, tender great-grandmother, beloved aunt, loving sister, and a true friend to many. As a faithful child of God, Irene was the heart of her family, and she will be greatly missed.

Irene was also preceded in death by her son, Nicholas Stechschulte, her eight siblings: Harold Altenburger, Wilbur Altenburger, Hubert Altenburger, Louise (Alt), Jerome Altenburger, Dolores (Friemoth), Paul Altenburger, and Donald Altenburger. She is survived by her children, Tom (Brenda) Stechschulte, Cheryl (Joe) Noonan, and Steve (Patricia) Stechschulte, daughter-in-law Monica Stechschulte, twelve grandchildren, a step-grandson, and sixteen – soon to be seventeen – great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Betty Lou Altenburger, and a cousin, Marge Hermiller.

A memorial service will be held in the Houston area, with details to be announced. A funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Kalida, Ohio. Visitation will be one hour prior the Mass at the church. Burial will be in St. Michael's Cemetery, with a reception to follow.

Arrangements are under the direction of LOVE FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Michael's Catholic Church, Kalida, Ohio, or a Catholic charity of one's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com

St. Michael's Catholic Church
Kalida OH 45853

Charity of the donor's choice