Irene G. Barba

Irene G. Barba, our beloved GiGi, passed away on November 13, 2024, at the age of 91 in Walnut, Illinois. Born on July 7, 1933, to Rafael and Sara Guajardo, Irene grew up in a large family in Chicago. She married Vincent Barba on September 26, 1953, and they spent nearly 20 years in California before Irene returned to Illinois as a single mother with her three children to care for her sick mother. Her life was defined by resilience, love, and unwavering devotion to her family.

In Brookfield, IL, Irene and her children built a new life surrounded by friends who became like family. Irene worked as a Marketing Agent at Spiegel’s in Downers Grove, forming lasting friendships. She was an active member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and volunteered with the Wildcats Youth Organization.

Known for her radiant smile, bold faith, and love of telenovelas, GiGi was the family matriarch—a prayer warrior and treasured storyteller who kept her family connected through memories of the past. Her friendships, many spanning decades, reflected her loyalty, humor, and compassionate heart.

Irene embraced life with unwavering joy, despite the hardships she faced. She had a passion for mariachi music and loved Mexican food—especially Chile Rellenos. Though her life was marked by challenges, she leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and faith, living on through her children Yolanda (Daniel), Robert (Jami), and Gustavo (Jessica); her seven grandchildren—Rafael, Jessica, Dana, Steven, Robert, Joey, and Ross; and her eleven great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Vincent Barba, her parents, her sister Toby Chavez, and her brothers Ralph, Rudy, and Jesse Guajardo.

Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

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