Irene A. Unger, age 85

Irene A. Unger, age 85, of New Prague, died peacefully, surrounded by her family on Sunday, December 17, 2017, at her home.

Irene was born on September 28, 1932, in Montgomery to Frank J. and Emma A. (Shetka) Ambroz. She grew up in rural Montgomery and attended Le Sueur County District School. She moved into New Prague and worked as a nanny for Warren and Bonnie Vollmar for many years before marrying her husband, Albert F. Unger on October 13, 1951 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church. The couple farmed together on their farm northwest of New Prague, where they raised their four children, until Albert’s death, when Irene moved into New Prague. She was a member of St. Wenceslaus Council of Catholic Women. Irene was an active and social woman, enjoying cards, especially Euchre, Pinocle, and 3-13; in fact, in the short time since moving in, she had already started a card club at Mala Strana Assisted Living. She enjoyed fishing, knitting, embroidering dish towels for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and going to Elko Speedway to watch friends race. She was known as the “Mocha Cake Queen” since making mocha cakes and zelneky were her specialties. Her greatest joy came in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, especially during the numerous camping trips.

Irene is survived by her children, Larry (Kathleen) Unger of North Liberty, IA, Richard (Nancy) Unger of New Prague, Bonnie (Greg) Novak of New Prague, Diane (Ron) Johnson of New Prague; sister, Bernice Tupy of New Prague; sister-in-law, Rita Ambroz of New Prague; 12 grandchildren; 15 greatgrandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Albert, on February 15, 1983; her parents; brother, Arnie Ambroz; brother-inlaw, Joseph S. Tupy.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, December 22, 2017, at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating. Visitation will take place Thursday from 4-8 PM and Friday morning from 7:30-9:30 AM at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery followed by lunch at the KC Hall.
bruzekfuneralhome.com