Irene J. Liberatore

Irene Jeanette Liberatore (O'Connell), 81, of Rotterdam, NY, passed away at her home on March 5, 2024.

Irene was born in Schenectady on November 26, 1942, to the late Harold and Jeanette O’Connell.  She was sister to the late George (late Marilyn) O’Connell.  Irene was a graduate of Mont Pleasant High School and Mildred Elley’s secretarial program.

She was a faithful member of St. Gabriel’s and St. John the Evangelist Catholic churches.  Irene dedicated herself to raising her three children at home and supported her husband as he progressed in his career.  She was famous for cooking and baking, especially chocolate chip cookies, and was always ready with a warm treat when the kids arrived home from school with friends.  Her house was always open to company, whether adults or kids.  The food was plentiful, and the pool was always open.

As her children grew older, Irene went to work at St. Clare's Hospital. She worked under the guidance of Dr. Jack Parillo and Dr. Omar Mendez in the critical care department. She appreciated their years of support and friendship, which extended well beyond the job. Her responsibilities included coordinating many conferences for ACLS training in Stowe, VT, and the annual summer Primary Care Conference at New Seabury, Cape Cod. With the kids moving on to college, Irene would accompany Guy on his global work assignments, eagerly embracing the chance to discover and explore new European cities.

One of Irene's true passions was her family. She could be found at the lake either camping on the islands with Guy and the kids or hosting dinners. There was always a pot of sauce on the stove, or a Beef Wellington served at holiday parties. Irene started a tradition of having “Thanksgiving in July” so she could enjoy her favorite meal more than once a year.

Her magic came in the way she knew everyone’s favorite treats.  Her pies were legendary.  She made all types, and never, ever without a homemade crust and fresh whipped cream.

In her retirement years, Irene dedicated her time to volunteering at St. Anthony's parish, working alongside Sister Maria Rosa in the kitchen. Her days were filled with cooking, baking, and helping to prepare numerous community dinners and the annual Festa.  She cherished the joy and unity these events brought the community members as they gathered to savor the feasts.

However, the highlight of her retirement was her deep affection for her grandchildren and the time she spent with them.  Her unwavering dedication to them was limitless, beginning with their very first moments in this world and continuing through countless sporting events, school plays, and important occasions.  A cookbook of her favorite recipes provides a roadmap of her amazing culinary skills for generations to come. She leaves a piece of her heart to each of them—a gift for a lifetime.

It's important to acknowledge that as her health began to deteriorate, Guy rose to the occasion, providing unwavering support for Irene at every moment. Their deep love for each other became even more evident through her illness, with Guy offering her comfort and protection every day. As her needs increased, a dedicated team was there to support her around the clock during her final year.  The family would like to thank Dr. Erin Juliano and her team for years of medical care and compassion, as well as Dr. John Pezzulo, and all of the caregivers who provided support to Irene and her family, especially Wendy, Jackie, Georgia, and dear friend Patty.

Survivors include her devoted husband of 60 years, Guido (Guy) Liberatore, loving children, Eileen (Michael) Underkoffler, Gregory R. Liberatore, Kathleen (Charlie) Whittaker, and her adoring grandchildren, Elizabeth Underkoffler, Jonathan Underkoffler, Gianna Liberatore, Colleen Whittaker, and Raymond Whittaker.

We will dearly miss Irene as the seasons and events of life pass, but her memories and love will always be in our hearts.

Visitation hours are from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 15, 2024, at Bond Funeral Home, 1614 Guilderland Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12306.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in her honor on Friday, March 15, 2024, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Evangelist Church, 802 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12309.  Burial will follow at The Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, 2501 Troy-Schenectady Road, Niskayuna, NY 12309.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Irene’s name to: Cure Alzheimer's Fund, https://curealz.org/giving/donate/, or
Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY https://regionalfoodbank.net/.