Mrs. Irene Mary Munoz was born October 6, 1935, in Redfield, SD, to Edward and Elizabeth (Lingeman) Heppler

She married Michael Munoz on June 30, 1956, in Lead, SD.

Irene loved her family, often writing us letters and cards, and sending photos. She never forgot a birthday or Christmas. Irene loved the Lord, and was very dedicated to her faith, praying her rosary each night along with the radio, and watching mass every Sunday morning. Because Irene had trouble getting around, she enjoyed activities in their home like crossword puzzles, often reading the clues aloud to Mike, and then laughing out loud when she came up with the correct answer. Irene had the most beautiful, musical laughter, and we would call her up on the phone just to hear her laugh when she answered! She enjoyed cooking, and her hand-held gambling games. Grandma also loved football, and was an avid Denver Broncos fan. Irene enjoyed participating in the occasional slot tournament, when she and Mike would go to town for the weekend.

Irene meant so much to so many different people. She had such a tremendous effect on all our lives, demonstrating a perfect example of love, forgiveness, kindness, and generosity. We will miss her dearly every single day.

Irene left this earth peacefully with family by her side to join our Heavenly Father on October 11, 2015, after a short illness.

Irene is survived by her loving husband, Michael Munoz; children, Marcella Ann Munoz-Cortes and life partner, Max K. Hart, Michael John Munoz, Manuel Anthony Munoz, Monte Lee Munoz and wife, Heidi, and son-in-law, Paul Wehr; grandchildren, Cecilia Pavey and husband, Aaron, Constancia Cortes-Kendall and husband, Jason, Paul Wehr Jr., Randall Wehr, Michael Wehr, and Amber Munoz; great-grandchildren, Nikaya Cortes, Alicia Parsons, Alec McGee, Joseph Gibson, Jaidon Kendall, and Aidan and Sophia Duran; and one great-great-grandchild, Emily Charteau. Irene is also survived by three brothers, Victor, George, and Edward; two sisters, Rachel Bakken and Nedra Jones; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving daughter, Monica; four sisters; and one brother.

A rosary will be held Thursday, October 22, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel, Sturgis, SD.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Sturgis, SD, Friday, October 23, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. with Father Timothy Castor officiating. Interment will be at Black Hills National Cemetery at 11:30 a.m.

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