Irene Marie ‘Granny K’ Krittenbrink

With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, the family of Irene Marie Krittenbrink announces her peaceful passing on Sept. 10, 2025, in Kingfisher at the remarkable age of 100.

Born in El Reno to Marie Heber and Andrew Theodore Wolf on July 4, 1925, Irene’s life was a radiant reflection of her unwavering Catholic faith.

From the very beginning, her journey was one of devotion and service.

She was baptized, confirmed and later married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in El Reno, where her sacramental life began and where she would later vow her heart to the love of her life, Bernard Frank Krittenbrink, on Aug. 12, 1948.

Irene lived her faith not only in words, but in action.

She was a dedicated parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Okarche, where she attended Mass faithfully for decades and often served as a lector.

She was an active member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, where she held roles as both secretary and treasurer.

Whether helping with parish projects, coordinating funeral dinners or quietly praying for her family and community, Irene’s life was rooted in Christ and the church she loved.

Her devotion to God shaped every aspect of her life, especially the way she loved her family.

Irene and Bernard were blessed with nine children and though Bernard passed away in 1981, she never remarried— her heart remained wholly his.

She is survived by eight of their children: Steve and Jan Krittenbrink; Ron and Darla Krittenbrink; Mike and Juanita Krittenbrink; Dave and Darla Krittenbrink; Jerry and Cathy Krittenbrink; Ed and Diane Krittenbrink; Bill and Patty Kaiser; and Janet Long.

To her family, Irene was so much more than a mother or grandmother— she was the heart of the home, the rock upon which generations were raised.

Affectionately known as “GrannyK,”shewasabeloved grandmother to 18 grandchildren — Jason Krittenbrink; Clint and Angie Trindle; Brent and Steph Snider; Michael and Andi Krittenbrink; Rick and Kayla Krittenbrink; Joey and Jenn Krittenbrink; Katie Kroener; Tanner and Amy Dyer; Ryan and Jill Krittenbrink; Kris Krittenbrink; Kole and Amanda Kennedy; Kara Krittenbrink; Jereme and Lacey Buck; Jared and Rachel Krittenbrink; Drew and Katie Krittenbrink; Will Long; Dalton and Kami Buck; Joe and Katy Reta; 36 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Irene had a unique way of making each grandchild feel seen and cherished — so much so that she always remembered exactly what each one’s favorite meal was and delighted in preparing it whenever they stayed over.

She was also known to never miss an Okarche or Kingfisher basketball game, especially if one of her grandkids was playing.

She hosted monthly birthday dinners, legendary holiday gatherings and was known for her vibrant Fourth of July celebrations — complete with fireworks — shared with her daughterin- law, Jan, and surrounded by laughter, stories and generations of love.

Irene’s love and presence extended beyond her home.

After Bernard’s passing, she embraced life’s adventures, becoming an avid traveler.

She explored 44 U.S. states, visited Europe twice, traveled to Canada and relaxed in Hawaii.

She marveled at God’s creation in places like the Grand Canyon, Big Bend, Niagara Falls, Disney World, Washington, D.C., and Carlsbad Caverns — often with family by her side or regular travel buddies.

A proud graduate of Sacred Heart Catholic School (Class of 1943), Irene pursued nursing at St. Anthony School of Nursing in Oklahoma City, graduating in 1946.

She became a Registered Nurse later that year and served as a Children’s Ward supervisor at St. Anthony Hospital. She also proudly served her country in The Army Nurses Corp.

Her compassion, strength and nurturing spirit made her a gifted caregiver, both professionally and at home.

Though time weathered her body and memory, her heart remained full.

Even in her later years, she lovingly retold the story of how she met Bernard — introduced by her cousin, Betty.

She never missed a detail, always smiling as she said, “He was the best-looking man I had ever seen in my life.”

Irene was preceded in death by all five of her brothers, Krittenbrink in-laws and their loving spouses, as well as her one sister, Sister Mary Andrew.

Now, reunited with her beloved husband Bernard, her young son Richard and daughter-in-law Julie Krittenbrink, she is surely rejoicing in eternal peace.

IreneMarieKrittenbrink’s life was one of deep faith, selfless love and enduring legacy.

Her rosary was never far from reach, her prayers never ceased and her presence will be missed beyond measure.

She leaves behind a family bound tightly by her example — a living testament to a century of grace, strength and unconditional love.

May she rest in the arms of the Lord she so faithfully served.

The wake service will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, and the funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Okarche with Father Don Wolf and Father Zachary Boazman officiating.

Services are under the direction of Huber-Benson Funeral Home, El Reno.

Memorials can be made to Holy Trinity Capital Campaign, P.O. Box 185, Okarche, OK 73762, or The Center of Family Love, P.O. Box 245, Okarche. OK 73762.