VINTON:  Irene Lewis of Vinton, died Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at the Virginia Gay Nursing and Rehab Center after a courageous battle with cancer.
     Irene was born July 16, 1935 at the family home south of Vinton, the daughter of Levi and Lillian (Chase) Lewis.
     She grew up on the farm and graduated from Vinton's Lincoln High School in 1953.  During high school she also took some correspondence art courses.
     After high school until her vision worsened in the 1990's, her art was a great pleasure to her.  She sold paintings to many Vinton area families, and at eastern Iowa art shows.
      She was secretary at the Presbyterian Church for twenty-six years.  Then she was secretary and treasurer for the Red Cedar Chapter of the Izaak Walton League for twenty-five years, until she developed cancer this spring.
     She enjoyed vacation trips with friends and with niece Becky Lutz.
     She is survived by her sister, Lola Lutz, Vinton; two nieces, Becky Lutz, Vinton and Kathy (Dr.David) Dzewaltowski of Manhattan, KS; and their two children, Chelsea and Alex Dzewaltowski.
     She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother-in-law, Melvin Lutz.
     As per Irene's wishes, she was cremated and her ashes will be buried at the family plot at Evergreen Cemetery.  A Public Memorial Visitation will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 PM on Wednesday, August 12, 2009 at Phillips Family Center, 605 2nd Ave. in Vinton, followed by Committal Services at Evergreen Cemetery. 
      Anyone wanting to display Irene's paintings at the visitation, may bring them to the Family Center Wednesday morning.    
      Memorials may be given to the Vinton Public Library, the Izaak Walton League- c/o Ann Harrison, 802 W. 8th St., Vinton, IA 52349, or to a charity of the donor's choice.  Condolences may be left at http://www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com