Kiernan, Irene M.

Rhinebeck – Irene M. Kiernan, 85, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2012, at the Baptist Home, Rhinebeck.

Irene was born November 10, 1926 in Yonkers to Kenneth Lester and Irene (Radigan) Moore.  She was raised in Yonkers, attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School and graduated from Commerce High School.   In 1971 the family moved from their home in Yonkers to what was their vacation home in Rhinebeck.  It was here where Irene began her long career in the Rhinebeck High School cafeteria, officially retiring as the Attendance Officer in 1996.  Irene loved working at the school so much, she immediately returned as a substitute and worked another 10 years as often as she was called upon.  After 34 years, Irene retired "again" in 2006.   She also worked catering private parties and events with Jim Cody and Jim Reardon.  For more than 30 years, Irene worked at the ticket booth at the entrance to the Dutchess County Fair and for each and every fair goer who passed through her gate, this is where the fun began as she loved to kid around.

On April 21, 1946 at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Yonkers, Irene married Joseph A. ‘Buddy’ Kiernan; Mr. Kiernan passed away January 1, 2006.  Irene enjoyed many community activities with Buddy, however Irene's favorite was their Friday nights out at the Rolling Rock (Double O/Mazza's/Fosters) in Rhinebeck for happy hour with their family and many friends. Irene's home and heart was open to everyone.  Irene will be remembered by her family and friends for the many memorable gatherings at the family lake home, her unconditional love and her never ending smile.

Irene is survived by her children, Joseph Kiernan, and his wife Linda of Wappinger Falls, Lori Kiernan of Tivoli, Gary Kiernan, and his wife Sandy of Rhinebeck, Deborah Fierro, and her husband Kevin of Rhinebeck, and Carol Martinelli, and her husband Vincent of Florida.  She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, Kara Gabay, Daniel Kiernan, Jennifer Holsapple, Danielle, Sean and Sarah Kiernan, Jeffrey and Kyle Stark, Allister, Alexander, Alisa and Ryan Martinelli, and Murphy Ann Pena; 12 great grandchildren; a brother Kenneth Moore; sister-in-law Kathleen Brown; sister and brother-in-law Margaret and Joseph Welsh, many nieces and nephews, a large extended family, many wonderful neighbors and friends. She was predeceased by an infant son John Kiernan.

Irene was an amazing mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend who will be dearly missed by all.  Good Night Irene....

Calling hours are Thursday, 2 to 7 PM, at the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home,  51 W. Market St., Rhinebeck.  Funeral services are Friday, 11 AM, at the Funeral Home. Rev. Thomas Hartley will officiate.  Interment will be in the Rhinebeck Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations towards a memorial picnic area in honor of Irene can be made to the Baptist Home, 46 Brookemeade Dr., Rhinebeck, NY  12572.

The family would like to thank all of the Baptist Home staff, especially the staff from C Wing, for the outstanding care they provided and who helped our mother feel so loved and comfortable during the past year. Your kindness will always be remembered.