Irene (Wasko) Herbert

MINE HILL TWNSHP: Irene Herbert passed peacefully on January 16,2024 in Dover, NJ at the ‘young-at-heart’ age of 97. Her empathy and priceless wisdom never waned. She is survived by her loving and devoted son, Dennis of Mine Hill, owner of J.J Herbert Construction Co. est. in 1957 by his father Joseph.

Irene was born on October 8,1926 in Wilkes Barre, PA.  After her family relocated to New Jersey, she attended the Wharton Elementary School system and graduated from Wharton High School.

As a young woman during WWII, Irene fulfilled her duty in the war effort as a civilian escort directing visitors to their proper destinations at Picatinny Arsenal Military Base.              

In 1950 Irene married Joseph Herbert and settled in Mine Hill to raise her family in the home lovingly built by her husband. There they had two sons, Dennis and Joseph. 

Irene and Joe hosted many wonderful family holidays and summer barbecues.  Everyone was always welcomed into their home with open arms and generous hearts.

Irene was a loyal parishioner of Saint Mary’s Church in Wharton, NJ and a member of The Catholic Daughters for over fifty years. She also enjoyed trips and activities as a member of Sacred Heart’s Leisure Club in Dover, NJ. 

Irene was steadfast in her faith. Prayer gave her strength and everyone in her family was on the receiving end of the blessings that her daily reciting of the rosary or novenas provided at some difficult point in their lives.

For twenty-five years until her retirement, Irene worked for the Mennen Company in Morris Township. Lots of treasured memories were made at the Annual Mennen Family Picnic attended by her family and friends.

Irene loved children as all of her nieces and nephews know very well. “Aunt Irene” was everyone’s favorite babysitter for three generations. This love was extended to all children and she spent time in Sacred Heart School as a teacher’s aide then later as a professional nanny for twenty years.

As a nature lover Irene enjoyed tending the fresh Jersey vegetables from her beautiful, lush garden every summer and observing the birds and wildlife that frequented her yard. Fishing was also a favorite pastime and her skills included catching freshwater fish in New Jersey and Canadian lakes as well as fishing off the coast of the Jersey shore. 

Irene is predeceased by her husband, Joseph Herbert, her son Joseph John Herbert, and her siblings, John Popovitch, Andrew Popovitch, Mary Popovitch, Helen (Popovitch) Turpack, Elizabeth Popovitch and Jean Marie Porphy.

Anyone who knew Irene loved her. She was warm and funny and easy to talk to. Her family and friends were so dear to her. They so looked forward to her accounts of growing up in the depression era. She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered. As per her wishes Irene was cremated and will be buried with her family at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Interment of remains will be held in a private service at a later date.

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