Irene Mae Jokerst

Irene Mae Jokerst, 97, passed away January 11, 2024, at McCrite Plaza in Topeka, Kansas.

Irene was born to Remie and Madeleine Messiaen in Omaha, Nebraska on May 20, 1926.

She married James Joseph Jokerst on August 25, 1947, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Omaha. They settled in Salina, Kansas in August of 1970 where they attended St. Mary’s Queen of the Universe Catholic Church.

Irene was a member of The Catholic Daughters of America, enjoyed activities with the Mid America Antique Car Club and worked summers in the premium room for the Tri Rivers Fair Board. She retired from USD 305 Food Services after approximately 20 years of service. In retirement she traveled with her husband to southern Texas every winter and entertained her grandchildren on vacations.

Her husband of 71 years, James, passed in 2018. Two of her sisters have also passed. They were Alice Ciurej and Margaret Farley of Omaha, Nebraska.

She is survived by her sister Mary Hovivian of  California, her 3 children Kathy Ellison (John), Mike Jokerst, and Judy Dipman all of Topeka; 4 grandchildren Corey Dipman (Leandra), Shawna Camargo (Alex), Amber Dipman, and Brenna North (Ryan) and 7 great grandchildren who were her absolute joy.