Irene R. (Wuertz) Leukam, 92, of Sauk Centre formerly of Lake Henry died Wednesday, January 16, 2019, at the Monticello Care Center in Monticello. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am Wednesday, January 23, 2019, at St. Margaret Catholic Church in Lake Henry. Interment will be at the church cemetery. A visitation will be held from 10-11:00 am Wednesday at the church with a Christian Mothers Rosary prayed at 9:45 am. Services are entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home in Paynesville.
Irene Rose Leukam was born February 20, 1926, on the family farm near Greenwald, MN, the daughter of John and Mary (Brus) Uphus. She grew up on the farm where she received her education at a small country school. When Irene was in the 8th grade her mom died. She finished the 8th grade and then stayed home to help with her siblings and the farm.
On September 20, 1945, Irene was united in marriage to Norbert Wuertz. This union was blessed with two daughters and three sons. The family made their home in rural Lake Henry where they farmed. In 1983 Irene and Norbert retired and moved to their retirement home near Sibley State Park. On December 31, 1998, Norbert died. They shared in 53 years of marriage before his death.
Irene remained in their home near Sibley until she was united in marriage to Dillo J. Leukam on March 4, 2000. They made their home in Sauk Centre, where Irene enjoyed retirement and Dillo’s companionship. On March 24, 2007, Dillo died. Irene stayed in Sauk Centre until her health no longer allowed it and she moved into senior living facilities.
When Irene lived in Lake Henry she was a member of St. Margaret Catholic Church where she volunteered in many aspects including the Christian Mothers, Daughters of Isabella, teaching religion, and cleaning. Irene enjoyed quilting, sewing, gardening playing cards, and bingo, and loved fishing.
Irene R. Leukam died on January 16, 2019, at the age of 92. She is survived by her children: Mary Lou Williams, Ken (Jane) Wuertz, Tom (Teddy) Wuertz, and Anna (Stewart) Erickson; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and her brother Fritz (Marilyn).
Irene was preceded in death by her husbands, Norbert and Dillo; son, Daniel; son-in-law, Don Williams; and five siblings.