Irene Houston, 92

Irene Theresa Houston, 92, passed away peacefully in the early hours of June 13, 2025, in Kalispell. She was born Feb. 1, 1933, in Anaconda. Irene was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Charles Houston, sister, Betty Roeder, brother, Edward Mellon, and son, Wayne Houston. 

She is survived by many friends; sister, Madeleine Mellon; son, Jeff Houston; granddaughters, Michelle Herriges and Cynthia Thorsen; and great-grandchildren, Haley Huff, Rorik Thorsen, and Matteus Thorsen.

Irene was full of life and rarely sat still. She was a early member of both the Flathead Quilters Guild and Alpine Spinners and Weavers. She was an active member of Epworth United Methodist Church for 75 years and was both a care giver and later a care receiver in Epworth’s Stephen Ministry program. She worked many years as a bookkeeper and in accounts payable and was "lovingly" bestowed the nickname of "Mean Irene" for her unwavering determination to follow the payday protocols. 

When not working, Irene could most often be found in her kitchen cooking and baking. She loved feeding her family and friends. It was often said that if you went hungry at her house, it was "your own darn fault." She participated in various baking events at the county fair even winning a blue ribbon for her homemade apple pie. At Christmas, she was known for gifting her homemade caramels. When she wasn’t cooking and baking, she could be found quilting, sewing, spinning, and supporting her family by attending their concerts and school activities. Irene will be remembered for her huge heart and love for others. 

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6 at Epworth United Methodist Church in Kalispell.