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PICKERINGTON -- Irene Katsares, 77, of Pickerington, and formerly of Warren, passed away on Thursday morning, Oct. 22, 2026, at Canal Winchester Rehab Center in Winchester.
Irene was born on Sept. 26, 1949, in Warren, a daughter of Steven and Helen Flizanes Katsares. A proud 1968 graduate of Warren Western Reserve High School, Irene went on to build a successful and admirable career with JCPenney, where she dedicated 47 loyal and hardworking years of service before enjoying a well-deserved retirement.
A pioneer in her field, Irene was one of the few women working in technical support during the 1970s, a time when women were rarely represented in the industry. Through her determination, intelligence and strong work ethic, she helped pave the way for others while earning the respect of those who worked alongside her. Irene approached her career with dedication and perseverance, qualities that reflected the strength of her character and the pride she took in everything she did.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Irene’s Greek Orthodox faith was an important and enduring part of her life. She was a longtime member of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Warren and later became involved with Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Springfield, where she generously volunteered during the church festival. Irene was deeply proud of her Greek heritage and never forgot her roots. Her faith, traditions and cultural identity remained close to her heart, providing a meaningful connection to her family and community throughout her life.
Wherever Irene went, she made her presence known. She was a natural leader with a strong personality, a confident spirit and a willingness to become involved in the things that mattered to her. She valued friendship, community and staying active, becoming a member and then vice president of the Violet Township Women’s League in 2016, and a member of the Pickerington Senior Center that same year. Through these organizations, Irene continued to build friendships, participate in community life and share the enthusiasm and determination that made her so memorable.
Above all else, Irene’s family was her greatest source of happiness. Although she never had children of her own, she embraced her role as an aunt with tremendous love and devotion. Her nieces and nephews were like her own children, and she treasured the special relationships she shared with each of them. She was deeply grateful for her family and the joy they brought into her life. Her love extended to the next generation as well, and her great-nieces and great-nephews held a special place in her heart. The bonds she shared with them were among her most cherished blessings, and the memories they created together will remain a lasting source of comfort and love.
Irene will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by her brothers, John (Paula) Katsares of Columbus and Michael (Tami) Katsares of Cortland; her nieces and nephews, Helene Garretson, Cathy Dickman, Tony (Amy) Cutsuries, Johnny Katsares, Christopher (Kiesha) Katsares, Noelle (Nick) Halkides and Nicholas (Samantha) Katsares; and her beloved great-nieces and great-nephews, Brock, Olivia, Athena, Maddie, Thomas, Anthony, Gabriella, Areia, Yianna and Bailey.
In addition to her parents, Irene was preceded in death by her sister, Olivia Cutsuries.
Irene’s life was one of dedication, faith, pride in her heritage and unwavering love for her family. She broke barriers in her professional life, remained steadfast in her beliefs and embraced the people and communities that made her life meaningful. Her strong spirit and unmistakable presence will not soon be forgotten. Though her passing leaves a deep sadness in the hearts of those who loved her, the legacy she leaves behind will live on through the family she cherished, the friendships she cultivated, and the many lives she touched along the way.
May Irene’s memory be eternal, and may she rest in the loving embrace of our Lord.
Family and friends may visit and pay tribute to Irene from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at the Peter Rossi and Son Memorial Chapel.
A funeral service will follow at noon Friday at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 429 High St. NE, Warren, OH 44481, with the Rev. Constantine Valantasis presiding.
Entombment will follow services in All Souls Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made, in Irene's name, to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 429 High St. NE, Warren, OH 44481.
Family and friends may visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Irene's family.
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