Irene A. Erikson passed away at the age of 91 in Kadlec Hospital on March 11, 2003. She was born on December 11, 1911, to John and Mildred Parquette in Pleasantville, Iowa. She grew up in Des Moines, Iowa and married Earl W. Butler in 1930. After living many places, they settled in Richland in 1944. Earl died in 1969. In 1972, Irene married Erik G. Erikson who passed away in 1995.

Irene lived in Richland for 50 years before moving to Canyon Lakes. While in Richland, she was a charter member of the Richland Federated Women's Club and held many offices in the organization. She was also a member of P.E.O.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Robert & Nadine Butler of Liberty Lake, WA, grandchildren, Robin & Donald Wyll of Woodinville, WA, Patrick & Trina Butler of Lyons, OR, and Stacey & Robert Goranson of Liberty Lake, WA. She is also survived by six great grandchildren: Marissa & Griffin Wyll, Casey & Cameron Butler, and Sidney & Caden Goranson, and several nieces and nephews.

Irene will be sorely missed by all her family and many friends who loved her.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 17, 2003, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Kennewick, WA. Interment will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Richland.

In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting donations to The Macular Degeneration Fund at Casey Eye Institute, 3375 SW Terwilliger Blvd., Portland, OR 97201-4197.