Irene Kok

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Irene Kok, age 92, of Milaca, passed away September 29, 2024. Memorial services will be held Friday, October 4, 2024 at 2 PM at the Christian Reformed Church in Pease.

Irene Kok was born on July 31, 1932, to George and Alice (Van De Riet) Kiel in Milaca Minnesota. She graduated from Pease Christian School and attended Milaca High School. She spent a semester at Calvin College. Irene taught school in Pease. She was known for getting the students to work by rewarding them with the promise of a softball game. 

She was united in marriage to John Kok on October 27, 1953. She lived on the family farm for 71 years. She gardened into her eighties and enjoyed many sunsets. 

Irene was a lifelong member of Pease Christian Reformed Church. She was active with the Young People's group in her earlier years. She taught Catechism for several years. She found great joy in making the Catechism come alive and be relevant for the students she taught. She also enjoyed teaching and participating in Beth Moore Bible Study for many years. She was involved in starting Girls Club. She served as a deacon. She loved serving in the church and sharing her love for the Lord. She also served for many years as a volunteer for the Pregnancy Crisis Center. 

Irene was a loyal Minnesota sports fan. She was willing to cheer on all MN sports teams. She played softball for many years and pitched the team to many victories. She enjoyed playing golf and bowling. 

Her strong faith enabled her to have a positive attitude through both times of difficulty and joy. Her faith was a source of encouragement to many people in her lifetime. Her love of her Creator in nature was constant throughout her entire life. She had a fierce love for her grandchildren and great grandchildren and considered them to be one of her greatest blessings in life. 

She is survived by her husband, John Kok, and her children, Mike and Lisa Kok of Milaca, Mary Kok of Omaha, Nebraska, Dick and Peggy Weeda of Albuquerque, New Mexico, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Gerrit and Harry Kiel, and her sister, Florence Vedders. 

Her entry into Heaven was guided compassionately and beautifully by her Hospice Team and by all the extraordinary staff at the Milaca Elim Meadows Health Care Center.