Irene Marie Cordeniz

Irene Cordeniz, beloved wife, mother, "Mammie", sister, friend, and neighbor, transitioned tenderly into eternity on July 24, 2023. She was 78 years old. A New Year's Day baby, Irene was delivered at her home in Tipton on January 1, 1945. She was the third of four daughters born to the late Joe and Aileen Souza. The family eventually moved to Tulare where Irene graduated from Tulare Union High School in 1963 and began working at Sweets Drug Store. On July 2, 1965 she married her "Loveface", Mel Cordeniz. They had 4 children she enjoyed being home with for several years before returning to work. The Cordeniz family enjoyed camping trips, deer hunting in Modoc County, digging for clams in Pismo, whatever extra-curricular activities the kids became involved in, gun shows, and family dinners every Sunday. Later, Irene and Mel entered the wonderful world of grandparenting together. "Mammie and Pramps" were admittedly joined-at-the-hip in all they did until Mel, sadly passed away in 1997. Their unique love and devotion to each other was truly special and a gift to their family. When Irene returned to work she was employed by Josten's Publishing where she worked completing yearbook lay-outs and later in the digital lay-out department. She retired in 2012 after 28 years of loving her seasonal work. Irene was also preceded in death by her sister, Carol Avles. She is survived by her sisters Diane Robertson and Joan Bezerra. She is also survived by her adoring children: Brian (TeAnne), Bob (Kari), Missy (Danny), and Danny (Mandy). She was blessed with 10 grandchildren who deemed her "Mammie": Brianne, Tanner, Brogan, Hope, Abbi, Adam, Natalie, Carter, Darian, and Dylan. She has 3 great-grandchildren: Jacob, Maeve, and Noah. Without question, she adored all of her children, grands, and greats and would do absolutely anything for them. She lovingly attended numerous events, athletic games, and performances her grandchildren were involved in over the years. Irene looked so forward to her sister weekends where they would enjoy playing board games and cards, hitting the casino, and listening to music. When she was on her own, it was all about doing puzzles, watching Hallmark movies and the all-knowing Judge Judy. In early years, neighborhood kids were always welcome and loved in her home. In later years, friends & co-workers of her kids shared the same treatment. Known for her famous fried chicken, filos', and peach slab-pie, she was fondly admired for her gift of hospitality and the fact that her door was always open. Everyone was welcome at Mammie's house where they enjoyed her contagious laughter that she said made her "eyes disappear". By God's design, in the end the quality of our lives is determined by our relationships. Be assured that Irene loved deeply and in return, she was so dearly loved. She lived for decades in times of personal loneliness and yet she graciously gave to those she knew and loved. A part of each of us will carry unique memories and sentiments until we are reunited in glory. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, Mom/Mammie. To be with you on life's journey has been a tremendous gift. Without a doubt, each time we see a sunflower our hearts will be completely yours. We will always long to receive your voicemail message one more time. "Hi, it's me. Give me a call. Mm-bye" Visitation will be held 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Thursday, August 17th, 2023 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia with the Rosary to follow at 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial services will be held 10:00 AM Friday, August 18th, 2023 at St. Rita's Catholic Church, 954 S. O ST., Tulare. Graveside services will be held 11:30 AM Friday, August 18th, 2023 at Tulare Cemetery, 900 E. Kern Ave., Tulare. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Irene Marie Cordeniz

January 1, 1945 - July 24, 2023