Irene Jane Martino, 98, of Punxsutawney, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Penn Highlands DuBois.
She was born in Rossiter on April 16, 1927, a daughter of the late Martin John Kendra and Anna (Tomoyka) Kendra.
In 1946, she became the wife of Fred F. Martino. They enjoyed thirty- seven years of marriage prior to his death in 1983.
Irene previously worked at Rola Jensen.
She was a member of the former St. Anthony’s Church in Walston.
Irene was a wonderful cook/baker whose kitchen was the heart of her home. She took great pride in baking her traditional ethnic foods, especially her poppyseed nut rolls, which became a family favorite. Over the years, her children were blessed by her wonderful cooking, everything she made was from scratch. Beyond the kitchen, she delighted in decorating her home for every holiday, filling each room with festive touches which brought joy to all that visited. She cherished the simple, meaningful things-cards sent from loved ones were saved and treasured, each one a reminder of how deeply she was cared for. Her appreciation for small gestures reflected the love and gratitude she carried in her heart every day. She found joy in knitting and crocheting faithfully creating a dishcloth each day. Irene was blessed to live out her life at home with her daughters, she had a sharp mind, she was always well dressed and incredibly independent, and she was able to care for herself until the very end.
She is survived by three children, Kathleen Martino of Punxsutawney, Jerry “Harpo” Martino of Mt. Pleasant and Judy Martino of Punxsutawney. Preceded in death by her parents, one son, Robert Martino; four brothers, Martin, Carl and Albert Kendra; four sisters, Margaret Denull, Cecelia Gabriele, Helen Jerko and Martha Pape.
There will be no visitation.
Arrangements entrusted to Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney.
