Irene H. Peplinski, 95, of Palmyra, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on May 3, 1930, to Richard and Norma Zirbel, Irene was raised in the Milwaukee area. On May 27, 1950, she married Jerome “Jerry” Peplinski, a Navy pilot. Their first date was an unforgettable aerobatic plane ride, much to her mother’s chagrin. Irene and Jerry shared 62 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with five children.
Irene’s life was centered on her deep faith in God and her family. She had a gift for bringing people together with her quick wit, warm hospitality, and love of a good game, whether a lively round of Sheepshead or Bingo for the little ones. Her home was always filled with laughter, good food, and a lively, loving atmosphere, and she took great pride and joy in the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Irene gave generously of her time and energy to both her parish and community. One of her greatest joys was working as a costumed guide at Old World Wisconsin, where she spent more than 20 years sharing the history of Wisconsin and the “old way of life” with visitors.
She is survived by her loving children, Richard (Patti) Peplinski of Brookfield, Laurie (David) Schulz of Glendale, Arizona, Robert (Victoria) Peplinski of Sullivan, Diane (Robert) Marsland of Madison, and Sue Peplinski of Palmyra; her grandchildren, Jeane (Jeremy) Boness, Lisa (Damir Djidic) Peplinski, Mali Schulz, Danny (Darcy) Schulz, Michael (Lindsi) Peplinski, Craig (Kerry) Peplinski, Jacqueline (Clifford) Radaj, Fr. Robert Marsland, Alex (Ava) Marsland, Jennifer (Nick) Ahlers, Matthew Marsland, Maria Marsland, John (Madeline) Marsland, and Joseph Marsland; her great-grandchildren, Lydia, Charlotte, Luci, Isaiah, Kieran, Lilliana, Charlie, Connor, Kaitlyn, Lauren, Ryan, Brady, Julia, Grace, Jack, and Anastasia; and a brother, Richard (Phyllis) Zirbel of Ohio. Irene is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Jerry, and her brothers Harold and Irving. She will be remembered for her humor, generosity, and unwavering love; a legacy that will live on in the family she so deeply treasured.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Palmyra. Rev. Msgr. Donald J. Heiar, Jr. presided, along with Irene’s grandson, Fr. Robert Marsland. Burial followed at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, and a luncheon was served in the church basement afterward.
Gibson Family Funeral Homes of Palmyra and Eagle is serving the family. To place an online condolence, please visit gibsonfuneral.com.
