Irene Laursen, a Gilroy resident since 1959, died December 13th at Santa Theresa Hospital in San Jose. Born Irene Sylvia Peters, she was 11th of 12 children in rural northwestern Nebraska. Irene had flowing red hair, a love of dancing, and a playful wit. She married fellow Nebraskan, Rudy Laursen, in 1936. The couple’s three children were all born in Nebraska; Lorrie Baker of Oakland, Phill Laursen of Gilroy, and Byron Laursen of Santa Ynez. A shy personality, yet remarkably determined, Irene survived by 35 years the loss of her beloved Rudy. A member of Saint Mary’s Parish, Irene received last rites before her passing. She is survived by her children and grandchildren: Lisa, Jennifer, and Kristin Laursen of San Francisco, and by devoted daughters-in-law, Kathy Laursen and Theresa Volpe Laursen.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, December 18 – 12:00 Noon at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Gilroy. Plans are being made for a celebration of Irene’s life, to be held in the near future.
