Irene Contreras

Irene Contreras, age 76, of East Chicago, Indiana, was called to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.  Irene was born to the late Jose' and Mauricia Sandoval on August 8, 1945, in East Chicago, Indiana. 

She leaves to cherish her memory: loving daughter, Felicia (Tom) Stephenson; loving son, Alberto (Nancy) Alfaro, Jr.; granddaughters, Kelly Stephenson, Juleesa Alfaro; and her furry babygirl,  Me-Lady; siblings, Mary (late Frank) Vasquez, Josephine (Cipriano) Rodriguez, Juanita Sandoval, Francisca (Thomas) Aguilera, Margaret Warner, Isidra (Steven) Martinez, and Anthony (Samantha) Lopez;  sister-in-law, Lillian "Bobo" Sandoval; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Irene is preceded in death by her loving son, Aaron Alfaro; devoted husband, Joseph Contreras; sister, Esperanza "Hopie" Peterson; brother, Louis Sandoval; nephew, Tyler Peterson; and brother-in-law, Frank Vasquez to whom she affectionately referred to as "Honey".

Irene was a 1964 graduate of Roosevelt High School (Rough Riders) and spent her career in the healthcare field.  She also appointed herself to be a medical guru and never missed an opportunity to lend medical advice to the family throughout her life.  Her sisters lovingly proclaimed her gold star member to both QVC and HSN shopping channels.  She was an avid fan of the Jeopardy TV show and enjoyed watching Turner Classic Movies (TCM), Hallmark, Food Network, and the BBC channels.  She also enjoyed Egyptian literature and collecting asian tea sets, artwork and furniture.

Visitation will be Monday, November 22, 2021, 2:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m. with an additional visitation Tuesday, November 23, 2021, 10:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m. with Funeral Services 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. from Ridgelawn Funeral Home 4201 West Ridge Road Gary, Indiana. Burial immediately following services.

Irene was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. The family is requesting no children attend services due to Covid-19 restrictions.

MASKS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL ATTENDEES VACCINATED OR UNVACCINATED ! MASKS MANDATE WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED !

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