Irene M. (Mealus) Wetsig

Mrs. Irene M. (Mealus) Wetsig, age 89, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at The Pines at Utica with the love and support of her family by her side. Born in New York City on December 24, 1920, Irene was the daughter of the late Thaddaus and Marguerite (Thomason) Mealus. She was raised in Theresa, NY where she also received her primary education in a one-room school house. She subsequently attended Potsdam State Teachers College where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in education. On September 8, 1946 she wed Chester J. Wetsig with whom she shared a mutually respectful marriage of 63 years. As a dedicated educator, Irene excelled in her teaching skills, particularly in connecting with 1st grade level students. She was keenly invested in their learning, especially in reading comprehension. She taught in Long Island, Herrings and Carthage, and instructed generations of students in the Utica City School District, primarily at Seymour School, from 1958-1983. She was well-suited to her career and she felt that providing individual attention and guidance in the classroom was important. She held fond memories of the children whose lives she touched, and not a day went by that she would not recall that precious part of her life. After retirement, she remained committed to the educational field by volunteering in the area of reading. Socially involved and community-minded, Irene was a woman of great strength of character who stood by her convictions. She was mathematically inclined and fulfilled her intellectual quest for political and world news by reading newspapers, including the New York Times which she read daily. Upon retirement, she and her husband traveled the United States as well as Europe. She was a lifelong reader and aspired to watercolor and oil painting. She was an advocate of the Utica Public Library and the Munson Williams Proctor Arts Institute. As a patron of the fine arts, she entertained herself through their inspiring programs. Irene is survived by her husband, Chester; and her daughter and son-in-law, Lorelei “Laurie” and Tom Francis of Syracuse and Hackensack, NJ. Always close to her heart was the memory of her son, Stephen C. Wetsig, who preceded her in death on June 8, 2004. She also leaves her adored grandchildren, Stephanie Francis of N.Y. City, and Jeremy Francis and his wife Laurie (Dought) Francis of Vermont. Survivors also include her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, including Frances Harris. She was blessed with many friendships, especially the members of the Lackey family. She was predeceased by her brother and sister-in-law, Thaddaus “Ted” and Pauline Mealus. The family wishes to express their sincerest gratitude to the 4th floor staff of the Pines at Utica for the kindness and compassion shown to Irene during her time with them. Irene’s life was honored and celebrated in a private gathering. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be directed to the Utica Public Library, 303 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13501 or the Munson Williams Proctor Arts Institute; 310 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13502 honoring her passion for reading and her love of the arts. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Irene M. (Mealus) Wetsig

December 24, 1920 - July 27, 2010