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Irene Dolores Ullrich

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Irene, age 89, passed away on March 5, 2020. Irene was born on April 23, 1930, in Westmont, IL, to George and Veronica Formanek.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Richard “Bill” Ullrich and by their son, Thomas.

She is survived by three children, Richard Ullrich (Martha), Ellie Chaffee (Clark), and Jack Ullrich (Sheila). She is also survived by eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and her brother, George Formanek (Joanne).

Irene and Bill retired to Sun City West from the Chicago area in 1984, built a house here, and quickly became involved in clubs and activities in the community. They were active for many years in the Bike Club, Theatre West, Walking Connection, Hiking Club, the annual Variety Show, Tennis Club, Senior Olympics, and Westernaires, among others. They often attended the theater and the symphony in downtown Phoenix and enjoyed road trips throughout the Southwest. Their travels took them on bike trips to Europe, on cruises, and to many states, including Hawaii, as participants in Elderhostel programs. Irene and Bill also made many trips across the country to visit their children and grandchildren, and were always on hand for births, graduations, and weddings.

After Bill’s death in 2011, Irene continued to actively enjoy life. She was an avid reader and theater-goer, and she loved to attend club meetings, lectures, shows, and all manner of concerts and musical events, especially those involving her daughter and son-in-law, who moved to Sun City West in 2013.

Irene was a long-time resident at the Heritage Tradition, where she welcomed new residents with her beautiful smile. She was also a devout member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Sun City West.

Donations in Irene Ullrich’s name may be made to the Banner Sun Health Research Institute or to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Irene will be laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, next to her beloved Bill.

A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life are pending.