Obituary of Irene V. Austin

Irene V. Austin, of Newfoundland, NJ, age 94, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 4, 2017. Irene would like to let you know that her work here is done. She received the call and accepted her new assignment as Bell Ringer in the Halls of Heaven, a position she has been practicing for many years. This assignment comes with a huge sign-on bonus and a reunion with family and friends she has not seen in a long time. Her new mission takes her to a wonderful place where she is socializing, dancing and ringing the bells to her heart's content. Music, laughter and love are guaranteed, and the food is delicious. Born "Irene Veronica Held" on December 17, 1922, she lived an incredibly full life starting in Hackensack, NJ with her two brothers (the late) George and Robert Held. Married to Francis J. Austin, Irene raised three children in Belleville, NJ. She was a most loving and supportive Mom to her children as well as their spouses: Barbara & Keith Bliss of New Milford, Rich & Elaine Austin of Phoenix, AZ, Cathy & Mark Spagnolo of Newfoundland. Cherished Grandma of Stephanie & Isaac Marispini, Jonathan & Elizabeth Bliss, Jerilyn & Jason Maier, Scott & Alayna Austin, Jeff & Megan Bliss. Proud Great Grandma of Karyssa Burns & Zachary Austin. After almost 25 years with her 1st husband, the late Frank Austin (1972), Irene became the devoted wife of the late William G. Pavlitschko (1997). After 40 years in Belleville, Irene moved to Oakland, NJ in 1998 and became actively involved with the Oakland Senior Center, Prime Timers and Red Hatters where she enjoyed several trips, bingo games and line dancing with her many friends. Even though she moved to West Milford in 2006, her social life remained grounded in Oakland. Irene left detailed instructions to celebrate her mission here, which has now been completed. While we are so saddened by our loss, please join us as we celebrate her life which she generously shared with us. Visiting hours Thursday, June 8th from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Oakland Memorial Home. All with gather at the Funeral Home Friday, June 9th at 9:00 am and onto Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Oakland for a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. For full obituary and additional information, directions or condolences please visit www.oaklandmemorial.com