Obituary: IRENE K. KUSMIERZ (nee Baksy)

IRENE K. KUSMIERZ (nee Baksy), of Northfield, Ohio passed away quietly on Saturday, February 13^th.  She was 98 years old. Irene was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Edward Kusmierz. She was greatly fond of nature and its natural beauty, particularly wildflowers and wildlife.  She would sit for hours in her enclosed patio watching the many beautiful birds around her property.  She always kept an impressive vegetable garden. One of her greatest loves were for all animals, but especially her Shelties who were the love of her life.  She always felt her dogs gave her unconditional love and joy, as she also gave to them. Irene was known as a noted historian in Northfield.  She wrote and contributed to many articles about the history of Northfield Center Township. She received a commendation from the Mayor of Richfield for her work with the Historical Society of Olde Northfield and the Palmer House.  In 2018, she represented the Northfield VFW for the World War II Rosie the Riveter Memorial Day Parade. All who knew her were amazed about her knowledge relating to American History.  Irene was part of many organizations throughout Northeast Ohio and Northfield, including The Historical Society of Olde Northfield and 2^nd Palmer House Museum where she was a past president, board member and life member; Founding member and board member of Olde Northfield Historic Preservation Association; Member of the Richfield Historical Society and Valley Windows Project; Hungarian Heritage and Cultural Association; St. Elizabeth Historic Catholic Church; and Hale Farm and Village – Western Reserve Historic Society. Irene was also a “Keeper of the Flame” for the 90^th U.S. Army Division (Tough Ombres) Veteran’s Association. Friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 WEST AURORA RD. (OH RT 82), SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION ON SATURDAY FROM 10-11 A.M. OUT OF RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER, MASKS WILL BE WORN AND SOCIAL DISTANCING OBSERVED.  All are invited to gather at St. Barnabas Catholic Church, 9451 Brandywine Road, Northfield (Please enter off of Olde 8 Rd.) on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. for Irene’s Mass of Christian Burial.  Interment All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Irene’s name to the Cuyahoga Count Animal Shelter, 9500 Sweet Valley Dr., Valley View, OH 44125.