Auntie Irene

Irene and James
Irene Bengoa and James Purdy’s 1949 wedding picture taken at the Lassen Junior College Auditorium. It may have been the only wedding to occur at Lassen College. This was due to the fact that both were members of the Sacred Heart Church and the new church was under construction. It should be noted that decades later, Irene served on the Lassen College Board of Trustees.

On Tuesday, May 12, my dear Auntie Irene nee Bengoa Purdy Trout passed away at the age of 90. As a nurse her entire life, it was only fitting she went to heaven on the same date when Florence Nightingale was born.

Irene was involved in the Susanville community throughout her entire life, and leaves a great legacy. For me, and this many do not realize is in her own way contributed to my documenting the region’s history. When I was twelve-years-old, she gave me my first camera, which she told me, “You will be a teenager soon, and you need to record your life.” Did I ever and my surroundings as well. Little did I know then her gift would be history in the making. Of course, the first photograph I ever took was Auntie at her home on View Drive, which I will cherish forever.

7 thoughts on “Auntie Irene”

    1. So sorry for your loss Tim. Irene was a remarkable women and greatly loved by all, me included. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

  1. As we have discussed many times Tim their was only one Irene, her passing certainly leaves a vacancy in many hearts. Your tribute to her is extra special.

  2. Irene was a very special lady and will be missed by many. I will miss her at Sunday Mass, several of us ladies shared the back pew with Irene, she will be missed.

  3. Irene Bengoa was an amazing Lady. She will be missed in so many ways. Thank you for posting her wedding picture.

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