Ida “Irene” Bernstein, the daughter of Sarah and Robert Rosenberg, and beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, friend, passed away on May 15, 2019 in Dallas, Texas. Her passing was just one year after the passing of the love of her life, Ted Bernstein, who she was married to for over 70 years. Irene was many things to so many people, but one of the things her family admired the most was her unwavering love and uplifting, vibrant, and spunky personality. When Irene walked into a room, the room lit up just as when the sun rises in the morning inspiring hope and endless possibilities. Irene was born on June 23, 1927, and impacted the lives of so many people for almost 92 years.

Irene, a loving and dedicated mother, is survived by her three children: Carolyn Korlin (late Mark Korlin), Craig (Varna) Bernstein, and Scott (Terri) Bernstein. Irene was incredibly loving and devoted and was preceded in death by her sister Frances Gollub, her sister-in-laws,  Sarah Goldman, Bernice Essman, Loretta Rosenberg, Minnie Rosenberg, Sylvia Bernstein, Barbara Rosenberg, and Elaine Gollub, and to her brothers, Harry Rosenberg, Dave Rosenberg, Alvin Rosenberg, and her brothers-in-law Stanley Gollub, Al Bernstein and Max Goldman. Irene was blessed with eight grandchildren including Sean (Laura) Simon, Stacey (Zach) Adams, Josh Korlin, Melissa, Michael, and Allison Bernstein, Laurin Bernstein, and Pamela (Aaron) Pinkus. Irene was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren including Mason, Chase, Brayden, and CharoletteAdams, Ashley and Addison Simon, and Tara and Chandler Pinkus in addition to nieces and nephews.

As a young adult, Irene was a Model and attended Washington University studying Art History. Irene was a gifted painter, and continued studying art well into her 80’s. Her exquisite paintings can be found in her children and her grandchildren’s respective homes as priceless reminders of her beauty and expressions of love. Irene was an active JCC member, an avid tennis player, and the most fantastic chef. She passed down many recipes to her children and grandchildren, who cherish the memories of times not only in the kitchen cooking together, but also sharing her delicious meals during “family time”. Irene was passionate about cooking and making certain that her family always ate well as it was an expression of her love. Her Kmish bread was the BEST, and she would often have to hide it because it was so delectable that it would be eaten in a matter of minutes.

Many will remember Irene for her genuine concern for others, and her unyielding love for her family and multitude of friends. Irene was a beautiful woman inside and out, who over the years made numerous sacrifices throughout her life for her parents, siblings, husband, children, and grandchildren so that their lives would be better. Irene loved the theatre, movies, dancing, traveling, her St. Louis baseball Cardinals, and spending cherished time with her family. Irene had a zest for life that was infectious to others. Irene touched so many lives, and will be deeply missed beyond what words can express. Her wisdom, love, and beauty will live on in the hearts and minds of her family. Her memory will be a constant shining beacon for both family and friends.

The family wants to express our sincere gratitude to Irene’s caregivers including, but not limited to, Rose, Josephine, Esther, Julie, and Sharon. Irene’s family is also grateful to her healthcare providers who assisted her over the years.

Graveside services: Sunday, May 19, 2019 at 3:30 pm at Chevra Kadisha Cemetery, 1601 North and South Road. Rabbi Howard Kaplansky officiating.  Contributions in Irene’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice. A Rindskopf-Roth Service.