Irene F. Rufer

Irene Rufer passed away August 8, 2011 in Spokane, WA. She was born in Hillsboro, Oregon to Jacob & Flora (Wright) Rufer on September 4, 1918, the youngest of 4 children. She attended schools in Holbrook and Silverton, Oregon. She attended high school in Spangle, WA. During her Junior year of high school she spent the summer with an Aunt and Uncle on their ranch where she enjoyed riding horses and helping to round up cattle. She continued her education at Eastern Washington University where she recieved her Bachelor of Arts in Education degree and later recieved her Master's degree. Irene’s teaching career began at Deep Creek where she taught the upper 4 grades and was also the custodian and coach. Her softball team won the county championship. She taught grades 5-6 at Chattaroy and grades 4-5 at Sprague. This was followed by many years of teaching in Spokane School District 81. She taught 3rd grade at Hamilton Elementary, was a guidance counselor at Havermale Jr. High and then at Sacajawea Jr. High. She moved to Central Staff and her last position was that of manager of Loma Vista Guidance Center. Irene was president of American Childhood Education and served on many committees. She was also president of her Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and held other offices as well. After retiring she served as secretary for the administrative council and in various other capacities at Cheney United Methodist Church. Traveling and golfing with her friends were among the many activities she enjoyed. She was devoted to her family and enjoyed participating in many family events. She spent the last three years of her life at Clare Bridge of Spokane and, being the thoughtful, caring person that she was, made many friends there. Irene was gracious and compassionate. She was loved by all who knew her. The family wishes to thank the staff and attendants at Clare Bridge for the exceptional love and care they gave to Irene. She is survived by sisters Rosina Fairbanks and Lorene Remmers and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother Jacob Rufer. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cheney United Methodist Church, 204 4th St., Cheney, WA 99004 or a charity of your choice. A funeral service will held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 19, at Cheney Funeral Chapel with a luncheon to follow at Cheney United Methodist Church. Viewing will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on that morning. Burial will be at Fairmount Memorial Park in Spokane.

Irene F. Rufer

September 4, 1918 - August 8, 2011