Irene “Renee” Kathleen Koehne, cherished mother and beloved community member, passed away peacefully on Sept. 27, 2025, at the age of 88 in Hobart.
Born on July 3, 1937, in Oconto Falls, Irene embraced life with a remarkable spirit that touched everyone she met. She graduated from Oconto Falls High School with the class of 1955. Irene married her high school sweetheart, John Koehne, on Aug. 12, 1961.
Irene’s adventurous spirit lead her to travel the world. As a young woman, she worked in Fort Yukon, Alaska, giving tours to visitors along with her identical twin, Mea. She enjoyed her kids and being active in all parts of their lives, including careers and grandchildren.
Irene loved to entertain as well as set an elaborate table for the meals she would serve to friends. She had a lifelong fondness for cats and rescued many throughout her lifetime. Irene and John continued travel to well into retirement with adventures from Ukraine to Indonesia and other exotic locales.
Irene is survived by her loving son, Kevin (Susanne) Koehne, and her devoted daughter, Katrina (Mike) Geitner, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and resilience. She is further survived by her grandchildren, Zachary and Anna; host daughter, Liv Hiis Bergh; twin sister, Mea (Mike) Goodnough; and other extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, John; parents, Emil and Ruth (Wall) Plain; and brother, Bruce Plain.
A visitation for family and friends will be held after 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, at Jones Funeral Service, Oconto Falls. A memorial service to honor and remember the joy and love she brought into our lives will follow at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Tom Pomeroy officiating.
In her honor, let us come together to share stories, laughter, and memories that reflect her vibrant spirit. Irene’s zest for life will continue to inspire those who knew her, and she will be deeply missed but forever celebrated.