Irene H. (Eklum) Mastrelli, 68, of Dunkirk passed away Monday morning, June 16, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Dunkirk on July 4, 1956, wife of Salvatore Mastrelli and daughter of the late William and Letha (Stone) Eklum.
A lifelong resident of Dunkirk, Irene graduated from Dunkirk High School with the Class of 1975. Following high school, she attended Jamestown Community College.
Irene dedicated 38 years of her life to Brooks Memorial Hospital, where she earned the respect and affection of her colleagues through her unwavering work ethic and compassionate nature. Throughout her distinguished career, she held various positions, including lab assistant, phlebotomist, and oncologist assistant.
Family was at the center of Irene's world. Known affectionately as "Mama Bear" to her children and "Mom" to many, Irene was a nurturing figure who treated all those around her with warmth and kindness. She treasured every moment spent with her loved ones and was particularly passionate about attending her grandchildren's sporting events.
Irene was an adventurous and selfless spirit. Her warm heart extended to everyone around her; she loved animals and was always there for her family. Her engaging personality and sense of humor made her a joy to be around, and her home was a welcoming sanctuary where meals were shared, and all were treated like family. She was a talented cook, particularly proud of her signature Sunday spaghetti, and delighted in baking Christmas cookies during the holidays.
In her free time, she found happiness in various hobbies and interests, including trips to the casino with her daughters, traveling, and shopping.
Irene's proudest accomplishment was her family, she took great pride in each of them and the bonds they shared. Her enduring love and commitment will forever be remembered, serving as a guiding light for those she leaves behind.
Irene is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Salvatore "Sam" Mastrelli, whom she married on November 17, 1979; children, Candy (Kerry) McCarty, Salvatore R. "Sammy" (Stephanie) Mastrelli, Andrea (Andrew) Bouquin, Kristin (Daniel) Kreamer and Samantha (Max) Blair; grandchildren, Makayla and Kacey McCarty, Giovanni and Dominic Mastrelli, Cole Bouquin, Ashley Kreamer, Gianna and Lillianah Pagan, Isaac Kreamer, Dylan and Madison Blair; siblings, Edith (Virgil) Swagger, Bill Swanson, John (Nancy) Swanson, and Ruth (Mark) Burgess; her beloved Goldendoodle, Reba; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Irene is preceded in death by her father-in-law, Steve Mastrelli.
Relatives and friends are welcome to attend calling hours on Thursday, June 19 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Avenue in Dunkirk, where funeral services will begin on Friday, June 20 at 10:00 AM. Interment will be held in St. Joseph's Cemetery.
