Heese, Irene Barbara age 86 passed away suddenly on January 20, 2026. Beloved wife of 64 years to the late Peter P. Heese. Loving mother of Barbara DeJesus and her husband Juan, Peter F. Heese and his wife Diane, Patrick Heese and his wife Gina and Paul Heese and his wife Margarita. Also survived by 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Dear daughter of the late Michael and the late Jennie Kowalchuk. Sister of Frederick Kowalchuk and the late Laura, Mary, Alex, Carl and Frances.

Born in Paterson, she lived in Paterson, Woodland Park and Columbia, New Jersey before moving back to Woodland Park 5 years ago. Irene was a packer for Bromilow's Chocolate, Woodland Park. Prior to that she was a packer for Bee Chemical, Fairfield. Irene enjoyed horse racing, Bingo and casinos. She also enjoyed music, praying, and a good bottle of wine. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from the Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd, Totowa, on Friday at 9:00 AM. Funeral Mass to follow at St. Mary's R.C. Church, Paterson at 9:30 AM. Interment at Laurel Grove Memorial Park, Totowa. Friends may visit Thursday 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm.