Irene M. Smestad

She was born in Manchester on June 28, 1926 to Thomas and Bridget (O'Malley) King. She graduated from St. Joseph High School for Girls in 1945 and lived most of her life in Manchester.

Irene lived a spirited life. She enjoyed many activities such as golfing in the Ladies League at the Derryfield Country Club, working in her garden, cross-country skiing and cycling.

She was a longtime communicant of Blessed Sacrament Church in Manchester.

She was an avid supporter of the Red Sox and took great pleasure in watching their victories. Most of all, she especially enjoyed being with her family, including her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

IN HER LIFE: Irene was loved and admired by all. The family includes her husband of 59 years, Dennis C. Smestad; four children, Dennis Smestad and his wife, Jean, Steve Smestad, Jim Smestad and his wife, Dee, and Diane Alonso and her husband, Robert; 11 grandchildren and six great grandchildren; and two brothers, Peter King and John King.

She was predeceased by her sisters, Patty Demers and Esther Amsden; and her brothers, Frank King and Thomas King.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at Blessed Sacrament Church, 14 Elm St., Manchester. Committal prayers followed at St. Joseph Cemetery, 448 Donald St., Bedford.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities of NH, Inc., 325 Franklin St., Manchester, NH 03101.