Irene Zapara

Irene Zapara entered into eternal rest on Friday September 20, in the arms of her family. Beloved wife of Wilbur Zapara. Irene Ethyl Louise was born to Edward and Alma Klebe on January 18, 1923 in Walker, Minn. She was reared with siblings Agnes, Ruth Goldie, James and Donald in North Dakota. Irene was a life long member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, always very involved in the music department. Church pianist and organist in every church she attended. Graduating high school in Williston, No. Dakota. Irene married Wilbur Zapara on June 1, 1941. They moved to Oakland for a short time, then to San Pedro. The war was on - Wilbur was drafted and worked in the ship yard as a welder. Their first child - Charlene was born in 1942. Ronald was born just as Wilbur was on the ship in the L.A. harbor to be sent to New Guinea, ship to shore silence, consequently he didn't know he had a son for 3 months! She is survived by her 5 children, 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Daughter - Charlene Borris (Gene Boyko), Sloughhouse, granddaughter Rachelle Steed(Kevin). Grandson Steven Borris (Cynthia) great grandchildren Brandon and Ashley. Son - Ronald (Sheri) Lodi, granddaughter Cher Bouwer(Ernest), granddaughter Aimee Sullivan. Son Dale (Jeanne) Stockton, granddaughter Shannon Bettencourt(Matt), great grandson Matthew. Grandson Franco and Granddaughter Renata. Son - Randy (Margret) Lodi. Son - Terry (Jean) Lodi. Granddaughter Alexis. While Wilbur served in the war, Irene lived close to her family in North Dakota. When Wilbur came home they started farming in Williston. Many busy, happy years followed, filled with love and laughter. Irene was very involved in the church, acting as pianist and organist for the church as well as playing piano for singers on a church broadcast! In 1961 the family moved to Lodi, Ca. During that time Irene taught piano and organ lessons to many children in Lodi. As well as church organist and pianist at Lodi Fairmont Seventh Day Church. She was a very talented and musical lady - she could play anything just after hearing a song! In 1979 Irene and Wilbur moved to El Torro, Ca. Wilbur was working with his brothers at Zee Medical. Again, Irene was very involved in the musical ministry of the church. After Grandma Pauline Zapara passed away in Lodi, Grandpa Phil Zapara moved to be with them, until he passed away. In 1989 Wilbur and Irene moved to Sutter Creek upon his retiring. Irene played the piano and organ there as well, building many friendships - everywhere she went. The couple raised granddaughter Alexis after the untimely passing of her mother. Irene was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She taught all the little songs and finger plays to the kids delight. Family gatherings were always wonderful - lots of good German and Russian food, and above all Love. She will be missed by her husband of 72 years!, her loving children and grandchildren. Countless family members and friends. It was a blessed life. Friends are invited to attend a celebration of life at Seventh Day Adventist Church of Sutter Hill, Sutter Creek, Ca at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 25, 2013. Inurnment will be private.