SISTER IRENE BERGERON (Sister M. Wilhelmina) of the Sisters of Mercy
died Monday (March 7, 2011) at St. Mary Home, just shy of her 92nd birthday. The daughter of the late William and Laura (Rondeau) Bergeron, Sister was born March 15, 1919 in New Hampshire and grew up in Norwich, where she worked in a shoe factory after graduating from Norwich Free Academy. From early childhood she had a desire to be a sister, and at the age of 21 entered the Sisters of Mercy, beginning a 51-year career as a first grade teacher in Catholic schools throughout the state. She also served as principal of St. Patrick School, Thompsonville. Sister Irene's last assignment was at St. Joseph School, Meriden, where she taught, then joined the school's support staff, remaining for 24 years before retiring in 2000. Not only did Sister love to teach, she loved the beach! For many summers Sister Irene volunteered at Mercy Center at Madison and enjoyed the fringe benefit of swimming each day! She also was a Friend of the Meriden Public Library, spending time there daily, and was awarded a Certificate of Merit "for examplary service." Among her hobbies were sewing and crocheting. When she was no longer able to do either, she was always ready for Bingo – or any activity – every chance she had. Her mantra became - "Anything going on?" Sister Irene certainly lived life to the fullest and will be most remembered for her love of children, her devotion to God and her religious vocation, and her ever-grateful spirit. Sister Irene is predeceased by eight siblings and is survived by many nieces and nephews and her Sisters of Mercy community. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated on Thursday at 6:00 PM in the chapel at St. Mary Home in West Hartford. Friends may call at St. Mary from 4:00 – 5:45 prior to the funeral Mass. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery on Friday at 9:00 AM. Those wishing to make a donation in Sister Irene's memory are asked to consider the Sisters of Mercy, 55 East Cedar Street, Newington 06111. Dillon-Baxter Funeral Home has care of arrangements. To share a memory with the family please visit www.dillonbaxter.com