Obituary of Irene Petrauskas

Irene (Lazor) Petrauskas, 93, peacefully entered into eternal rest on October 19, 2024 in Liverpool, NY. 

She was born in Syracuse, N.Y. to the late Charles and Mary Lazor.  Preceded in death by sisters Anna Piontkowski and Julia Siedlicki Mathew.  

Irene was preceded in death on 09/15/24 by her loving husband  of 69 years, Francis (Frank).  Survived by their 7 children, Theresa (Steve) Contons, Joan (John) Chace, Cecilia Shipley, Kathleen Petrauskas, Matthew (Jean) Petrauskas, Ann Chatterton, & Barbara (Hans) Brechbuhl & 11 grandchildren, Jessica & Jaclyn Chace, Nicholas, Sarah, & Colin Shipley (and their father, Simon),  Christina & Kathryn Petrauskas, Zoe & Zachary Chatterton (and their father, Paul), and Luca & Justin Brechbuhl. Also survived by her sister Sophie Shea. 

Irene enthusiastically embraced her role as the mother of 7 and grandmother of 11. She loved and supported countless others and was valued for her listening ear and advice laced with what her family called "Irene-isms". Her thoughtful cards and letters often contained a Family Circus clipping or two.

Deeply spiritual and inquisitive, she adeptly navigated the gray areas in life without judgement. A tireless volunteer along with her husband Frank, she donated countless hours over several decades to the Francis House, Meals on Wheels, and the Rescue Mission to name a few. 

A funeral mass will take place on Saturday October 26, 2024 9:30 am at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 927 Park Ave., Syracuse, N.Y. 13204. There will be no calling hours. 

Burial will immediately follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery & Mausoleum, 4100 East Genesee Street, Dewitt, NY 13214. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave , Syracuse, NY 13208 or the Sacred Heart Basilica Preservation Fund, 927 Park Ave., Syracuse, NY 13204. If you wish, please do a good deed for someone in Irene's name. She would love that. 

Arrangements are being coordinated by the Hollis Funeral Home. 

Her family would like to thank the 2nd floor staff at Elderwood-Liverpool for their excellent care and support.