Irene A. Maskarinec 1927-2025

She was born Nov. 19, 1927, in Youngstown, and was a proud graduate of The Rayen School.

She began her career at Kress Five and Dime, a place where fate introduced her to her beloved husband. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that would define her life.

After marrying, Irene dedicated herself to her family, nurturing and caring for her children and creating a warm home that was a sanctuary of support and love. She was the cornerstone of her family, a role she embraced with grace and unwavering commitment. Despite the busyness of raising her children, in her free time she enjoyed watching football, playing cards and an occasional trip to the casino.

Irene’s love for her family was profound; they were her greatest treasure and her pride. Her nurturing spirit will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

Irene is survived by her devoted sons, Michael (Suzy) Maskarinec of Pittsburgh, Gregory (Maureen) Maskarinec of King of Prussia, Bruce (Shelby) Maskarinec of Washington, Pa., and Kenneth (Sandra) Maskarinec of North Jackson; her grandchildren, Kate (Danny) Spelta, Ethan Maskarinec, Grace (Karthik) Hariharan, Daniel (Ann) Maskarinec, Matthew (Natalie) Maskarinec, Jennifer (Tyler) Fritch, Sarah Maskarinec, Karynn (Dan) Schaefer, Colleen (Jacob) Millerleile and Clayton Maskarinec; seven great grandchildren with three on the way; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents, James and Giovannina Lillo DiNunzio; her husband, Michael Maskarinec, whom she married Sept. 12, 1953, and who passed away Oct. 23, 2012; her daughter, Paula Hrifko; two grandsons, Johnny and Jason Hrifko; and her siblings, Raymond (Lillyan) DiNunzio, Josephine DiNunzio, Philomena (Lou) DiNunzio, Helen (Bob) Atlanta, Dorothy (Michael) DeMichele, Frank DiNunzio, Carl (Dorothy) DiNunzio and Louis (Annette) DiNunzio.

Family and friends may pay their respects 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 at St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, 356 Belle Vista Ave., where a Divine Liturgy will follow at 11 a.m.

Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

(special notice)