In January 1944, at just eleven months old, Irene's world was illuminated by the red and purple glow of artillery fire as the Vistula-Oder Offensive reached her family's doorstep. Faced with the encroaching front, her parents made the harrowing decision to flee their home. Before leaving, her father buried their most valued possessions beneath the floor of a grain silo, holding onto the hope - shared by many - that they would return in just a few days.

Irene's journey across the frozen landscapes of Europe became a family legend. Traveling in a caravan of 70 families on horse-drawn wagons, she and her family narrowly avoided Soviet air attacks and survived the harsh winter by scavenging food and shelter in abandoned villages. It was within these temporary refuges, amidst the sounds of distant rifle fire and the chaos of war, that Irene took her very first steps.

After reaching Munderloh, Germany, in March 1945 with nothing but the clothes on their backs, the family endured years of post-war hardship and inflation. Yet, they remained determined to build a better future. On April 15, 1950, after years of preparation and a long journey across the Atlantic, Irene arrived in Ponca, Nebraska, to begin the new life that her parents had fought so hard to give her.

In 1955, the family moved to Norfolk, Nebraska, where Irene attended Norfolk High School and graduated in 1962. She met Gene Shaw while he was attending his freshman year at the College of Norfolk. Their meeting marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership built on devotion, humor, and shared purpose. Irene and Gene married in 1963 and began their life together with optimism and love.

The couple moved to Omaha, where they welcomed their first son, Bryan, in 1967. In 1974, the family moved to West Des Moines, Iowa, where Irene and Gene formed deep friendships that lasted a lifetime. Irene dedicated herself to raising her family, and in 1984 their second son, Corey, arrived, lovingly remembered as the best surprise.

Irene's days were filled with caring for her family, attending soccer games, gardening, creating countless crafts, and hosting gatherings that reflected her warmth and generosity. Gene stood beside her through it all, a steady and loving presence.

In 1982, Irene and Gene purchased a charming cabin on Lake Ojibway in northern Minnesota, near the Boundary Waters. The cabin became a cherished retreat for family and friends. Summers were spent with children and guests, planting trees and flowers, welcoming everyone with open arms, and enjoying long days by the water. Gene especially loved fishing at the cabin, while Irene delighted in tending the land and creating a place that felt like home to all who visited.

Ten years later, Irene and Gene made Minnesota their permanent home, settling in Hermantown. There, Irene immersed herself in family life, Corey's sports and school activities, and building new friendships. Hermantown remained their home for the rest of their lives.

Irene was fortunate to return to Germany and experience her childhood country, and she also traveled throughout Europe with her sister Erika. Though she loved learning about the world, Irene was always happiest returning home. She proudly described herself as both a proud American and a proud immigrant.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents, Emma and Rudolph Harbart; and siblings, Irma, Erich, Art, and Erika.

Irene is survived by her devoted husband, Gene Shaw; loving sons, Bryan (Jenifer) and Corey (Nikki); seven cherished grandchildren, Emma, Jack, Kate, Ali, Gavin, Mia, and Lily; and many loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Irene's life was one of resilience, generosity, and devotion to family, to home, and to the love she shared with Gene and all who knew her. Her story began in upheaval but unfolded in love, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations.

Visitation to be held from 5:00 - 6:00 PM on Monday, Janaury 19th at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown. Visitation to continue at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, Janaury 20th with Funeral Service at 11:00 AM and reception to follow. Committal and interment at 2:00 PM at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery - Duluth.