Irene Claire Meier, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and woman of deep Catholic faith, passed away peacefully, surrounded by God’s grace, on January 14, 2026, at the age of 79.

Irene was raised in Munich, North Dakota, where she developed the strong values, work ethic, and faith that guided her throughout her life. She deeply adored her parents and carried their love with her always.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota, and later completed her Master of Business degree at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Irene dedicated more than 40 years to a successful career in medical records.

Her Catholic faith was the foundation of her life. She loved praying the Rosary and always kept one in her pocket. Irene faithfully served her church over the years as a choir member, organist, Eucharistic Minister, and sacristy assistant.

Irene was an excellent seamstress and an avid gardener, creating large and beautiful flower gardens around her home in Hastings, Minnesota. In her younger years, she was active in 4-H, played basketball, sang in choir, and bowled in both women’s and co-ed leagues. She especially loved watching her children and grandchildren play sports and also enjoyed following the Minnesota Vikings, Timberwolves, and Lynx.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, Jack Meier; her children Monte Meier (Tracy), Susie Sommerfeld (Billy), and Jodi Altavilla (Nick); and her ten cherished grandchildren—Katelyn, Drew, Cole, Paige, Halle, Brooke, Ryan, Mason, Macoy, and Makenna—who filled her life with love and joy.

Irene’s legacy lives on through her unwavering faith, her devotion to family, and the many lives she touched with her kindness, service, and steady love.

In loving memory of Irene, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org, in lieu of flowers.

Services

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, February 6, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 1154 Seminole Ave., St. Paul, MN, with visitation one hour prior. A luncheon will follow the Mass. A private family burial will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.