Irene Rich Calvarese, who just celebrated her 84th birthday, of Wilmington, Delaware passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025, with her loving family by her side.  

Irene was born in Wilmington to the late Nicholas A. Rich (Ricci) Sr. and Assunta Marinelli Rich.

She was the ultimate mother, raising her two children.  She adored her five grandchildren and loved them dearly.  She found immense joy in attending and supporting them in any sporting event, theater event or giving her never ending advice and wisdom to each of them.  She had many life long friends that brought her so much joy.  She loved going out to dinner or lunch or any excuse to socialize and get dressed up. She was a strong woman who endured many trials and tribulations but always kept fighting and moving forward  

She was a proud graduate of Ursuline Academy class of 1959  where she attended on an academic scholarship, remaining friends with her classmates.

Irene devoted over 20 years in the banking industry starting with Delaware Trust and retired with Wachovia in the Trust Department.  She was known for her extreme sense of fashion and style and always made sure she looked impeccable.  

Summer was her favorite time of year, as she loved her flowers and making sure her property always was well manicured.  She loved spending time at the beach and in the sun.  Her love for the Philadelphia Phillies was immeasurable and made it known that Nick Castellanos was her favorite.  She was looking forward to the upcoming season.  

She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother (who was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her first great-grandson in March) and sincere friend.  We lovingly referred to her as “The Queen”.  She was definitely the Matriarch of our family.  She was also lovingly referred to as “mommom” by all of her grandchildren’s friends. Nothing made her happier than her family dinners.  She will be profoundly missed.

Irene is preceded in death by her amazing husband Louis A. Calvarese, Sr. (Lou) 2015, son Louis A. Calvarese, Jr., 2018, son in law, Patrick Schneese, 2023 and her brother Nicholas A. Rich, Jr. 2016

Irene leaves behind her daughter Susan Schneese (Wilmington, DE), grandchildren Gabrielle Giroux (Nashville, TN) (Nick), Michael Calvarese (Holly Ridge, NC) (Leah), Olivia Ann Schneese (Wilmington, DE), Nicholas Calvarese, (Wilmington, DE)  (Alexis) and Luke Schneese (Wilmington, DE), Grand-Dog Jackson, Daughter in law Ellen Calvarese (Surf City, NC) Sister, Gen Limmina and brother in law Soddy and a host of nephews, nieces, great nieces and nephews, and great great nephew, her loving cousins that she adored especially Mary Ann Burton and Ann Rapposelli and her dear friends to cherish her memory.  

A special thank you from the bottom of our hearts to Dr. Alexander Deak and the staff from his practice.

A viewing will be held at St. Helena Catholic Church, 602 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, DE 19809 on Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 10:30am until 12:00pm, where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 12:00pm.. Entombment will follow in Cathedral Cemetery.

To offer condolences, please visit:

Gebhartfuneralhomes.com

302-798-7726