Irene Ellestad

Ellestad, Irene E. MADISON Irene E. Ellestad, age 89, entered into eternal peace, releasing her from an insatiable cancer on Monday, Aug. 11, 2008. She was born in Blooming Grove, the only daughter of Anton and Alice Pirkl. As a youngster, she watched over her three younger brothers and helped with many farm chores, especially disking tobacco leaf worm removal. At age 14, Irene worked for room and board, and 50 cents per week as a housekeeper and childcare helper for a family in Madison. Thankfully, there was some respite from hard work for this beautiful, fun loving, young woman. She and her friends enjoyed Saturday night dances with music provided by early bands conducted by Wayne King and others. One Saturday evening, a handsome young man asked Irene to dance, and after a long courtship, Bill and Irene Ellestad began a dancing and life partnership on July 1, 1939, lasting 64 years. She was a devoted wife, a wonderful mother and an immaculate homemaker, who also worked outside the home, retiring at age 65, from her position as a laboratory assistant in the Biochemistry Department at the University of Wisconsin. Irene is survived by her daughter, Mary Louise Sowatzke; a brother, Donald Pirkl; and several special nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her husband, Wilbert L. Ellestad; her parents; two brothers, Stanley and Marvin Pirkl; and son-in-law, Elmer N. Sowatzke. Irene was so grateful for the companionship and help of dear friends, Rose C., Kathy F., Diana F., Rose and Dale G. and Aggie M., as well as the prayers and support of her neighbors at Oakwood East Retirement Center. Her fervent desire to stay in her home for her final days was fulfilled by the exceptional services of HospiceCare Inc. and the RCP at OVE. In deference to Irenes wishes, no memorial service was planned and the burial was held at Roselawn Memorial Park. All remembrances in Irenes name may be sent to HospiceCare Inc., 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Fitchburg, WI 53711 or the American Cancer Society.