Irene Bothe

Irene J. Bothe (nee: Rukowicz), a life-long resident of Jersey City, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 2, 2022 at the age of 89.  

Irene was a well-known resident of the Downtown area of Jersey City where she was born and raised and spent much of her adult life. Later on, when she moved “up the hill” to the Journal Square area, she increased her already wide circle of acquaintances and friendships. Irene worked for many years in the Jersey City Public Schools as a teacher aide, first at PS#37 and then at PS#28, until her retirement in 2002.  

She adored Frank Sinatra - sometimes checking in for a doctor's appointment as ‘Irene Sinatra’ to the delight of the office staff. A great dancer, skilled crossword puzzle solver (Sunday NY Times included!) and an avid movie buff who could rattle off the cast of any Hollywood movie made during the golden era and beyond.  

Irene made a lasting impression on everyone she met and touched the lives of so many of the people she knew.  She was often referred to as “Cioci Irene” which in Polish meant she was an “Auntie” to everyone. Irene truly had a heart of gold and showed kindness, compassion, and love for every person she encountered, even strangers.  What made her happiest in life was making other people feel good about themselves, and anyone that had the privilege to know her knows she succeeded at that mission.   

Irene will be dearly missed by her family and many friends, but most especially by her devoted son Robert Bothe, and his wife Holly. She is also mourned by her sister, Barbara Chilcotte; her niece, Debra and her husband Andrew Meier; and her great-nephew Brian Meier. And the wealth of friends who loved her so much … the names of whom are too numerous to list. 

Her memory will be cherished and she will always remain in our hearts. Sto Lat!
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Irene Bothe, please visit our floral store.