Irene Lesmeister

Margaret "Irene" Lesmeister, 86, passed away into the Lords loving hands on November 24, 2023, with loving family by her side.

Irene was born on December 6, 1936, in Great Falls, MT, to Willard and Stella Hartnell. Young Irene grew up as an only child which gave her the ability to entertain herself, as well as learn how to bake and cook from the elderly landlord that she so dearly adored. This talent in the kitchen lasted throughout her life, and only got better with time. She spent many of her formative years with her grandparents and helped with their care as needed.  This work ethic, steadfastness and caring for others became a theme throughout life.

Irene attended school in Great Falls, initially at Great Falls High and then she transferred to Great Falls Central Catholic High School her junior and senior years. To this day, Irene maintains these lifelong friendships, and would meet "The Girls" for lunch to talk about the good old days.

While working in the kitchen at the Columbus Hospital, she befriended a wonderful Catholic Nun, Sr. Theresa.   This friendship changed the course of Irene's life forever.  It was Sr. Theresa that convinced Irene that she would make a wonderful and caring nurse.  As the story is told, Sr. Theresa had the daunting task of convincing Irene's parents that this was a great opportunity and a wonderful career path.  They finally agreed, which made Irene very happy.

After high school graduation in 1955, Irene enrolled in the Columbus School of Nursing, and graduated in 1958.  She began an amazing journey working at the Columbus Hospital which spanned over three decades.  She primarily worked the night shift, as she was excited to get paid time and half, and she loved every minute of it.  From orthopedics, pediatrics, surgical, night house supervisor, hospice, home health and community outreach, Irene covered it all.  She truly had a love and passion for nursing and touched the lives of so many.

On June 14, 1958, Irene married her husband and best friend, Don Lesmeister.  They raised four children and have resided in the same home for over six decades.  Don passed away in September of 2020, not long after their 62nd wedding anniversary.

Anyone who knew Irene can appreciate her love for her family, nursing, church, taking care of anyone in need and her love for baking and cooking.  You never left hungry after visiting the Lesmeister home.  Irene always had tasty baked goods ready in a minute's notice, and the door was always open.   She enjoyed traveling and trying new restaurants along the way.  She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and making many memories at their place at Flathead.  She was also a member of the Mixed Nuts lunch group, that was comprised of all the "old school" nurses from the Columbus Hospital.  They met once a month to discuss the old days and all their "shenanigans" while working the night shift   They used to say, "if those old hospital walls could talk."

She is survived by her sons, Dennis and Donnie (PJ Sweeney); daughters, Terri and Kathy; 8 grandchildren; and 9 great grandchildren.

Irene was a compassionate and loving soul whose kindness was only matched by her sincere concern and thoughtfulness for others.  You always felt welcome and safe in her presence, and this void will never be filled. She will be dearly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with a vigil following the viewing at 6:00 p.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Peace Hospice House.