Irene S. Gouker passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 7th, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Irene, née Rychnowski, was born May 17th, 1937 in Buffalo, NY. She was the youngest child of eight to Charles and Anna Rychnowski. Irene was a devoted wife to William (Bill) I. Gouker for 54 years before his passing in 2010. Together, they shared of life full of adventure, love, and happiness. Irene enjoyed traveling, hosting parties with Bill, being an active member of her church, bowling, and most of all, spending time with family and friends.
Irene is survived by her six children: Karen Gouker, Jill Barnes, Sandra Pucciarelli, Mark Gouker, Gretchen Gouker, and William (Bill) C. Gouker. She is the loving mother-in-law to Christopher B., Christopher P., Pascale, and Lisa. Irene is the beloved grandmother to Andrew, Megan, Kelly, Ronald, Melanie, Kevin, Karla, Kyle, Stacey, Erik, and Emma, and the great grandmother to sixteen great grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are invited to the following services on Thursday July 14th: Visitation from 10:30am -11:30am followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Church (Rockville, MD). To follow, an interment at Gate of Heaven cemetery and luncheon at Manor Country Club. Please see details below.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations in Irene’s name to Rosary Hill Home. This dedicated and selfless group provides end-of-life carefree of charge to those with terminal illness. Bill and Irene were proud supporters for several years, and they provided a great support of faith to Irene in the past year. Checks may be sent to: Rosary Hill Home, 600 Linda Avenue, Hawthorne NY 10532.