Irene Mutchelknaus Gross

Irene Mutchelknaus Gross 97 of Freeman passed away Thursday, March 14th at the Freeman Regional Nursing Home.  A memorial service will held on Wednesday March 20th at 11am at the Salem Mennonite (South) Church of rural Freeman. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm at the Walter Funeral Home in Freeman.  

Irene Mutchelknaus Gross was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. She left this world for her heavenly home on March 14, 2024. She was 97 years old.

Irene was born on July 10, 1926 to Bernard and Amelia Kaufman in rural Marion, SD. Her siblings included two older sisters, Violet and Cleo, and a twin brother, Eugene.

She was a lifelong member of the Salem Mennonite Church of rural Freeman, S.D. where she was baptized by Rev. Willard Claassen on November 23, 1941.

Irene’s early education took place in a country school in the east Freeman area. She graduated from Freeman High School on May 11, 1944. While in school, Irene enjoyed music and took part in plays.

On March 23, 1947, Irene was united in marriage to Harold Mutchelknaus in the Salem Mennonite Church. Together, they farmed and raised a family of four children: Teresa, Greg, Kelly, and Brent. Irene enjoyed the activities that her children were involved in and supported them enthusiastically.

Irene was a gardener and loved being outside. She enjoyed playing the piano and often would play for the residents of the Freeman Nursing Home. Service to her church was an important part of her life. Irene sang in choir and was a dedicated Sunday School teacher, as well as being a member of numerous groups and committees. In addition to helping with the farming operation, Irene also was employed at the Human Service Center, Dale Electronics, the Freeman Hospital, the Freeman Nursing Home, and Fensel’s Greenhouse.

Irene and Harold moved to Freeman in 1979 where they were both employed by the Freeman Hospital. Irene made the transition to living in town, but thoroughly enjoyed trips back to the farm. She maintained a garden and many flowers in the yard. After Harold passed away in 1993, Irene continued to make her home in Freeman. She enjoyed watching her family grow and relished in the activities of her grandchildren, attending their events as often as possible.

On September 18, 1999 Irene was married to Jake Gross Jr. in the Salem Mennonite Church. In 2020, Irene moved to Oakview Terrace in Freeman.

Preceding Irene in death were her parents; Bernard and Amelia; her husband, Harold; her sisters, Violet and Cleo; and her brother, Eugene

Thankful for the celebration of her life are her husband, Jake Gross Jr.; her children, Teresa and her husband, Richard Ortman; Greg and his wife, Cindi; Kelly and his wife, Colette; Brent and his wife, Cindee; ten grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, and numerous relatives and friends.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the Freeman Regional Nursing Home staff and the Avera Hospice Team for the compassionate care that was given to Irene during her stay.