WESTFIELD — Irene C. (Sternala) Nomakeo, 94, passed away Monday, January 9th, 2026, at Baystate Noble Hospital.
She was born in Ludlow on January 30th, 1932, daughter of the late Andrew and Katherine (Dymon) Sternala. Irene grew up in Ludlow and was a 1950 graduate of Ludlow High School.
Irene married her beloved husband, Fabian D. Nomakeo, in 1953, and together they shared 52 years of marriage until his passing in 2005.
She was employed as a proofreader for the Springfield Newspaper for 17 years. Irene later worked for Providence Adult Social Day for many years, where she served as a recreation assistant and was in charge of activities, bringing joy and companionship to many participants.
Irene was a devoted parishioner of Holy Trinity Church in Westfield and a member of the Rosary Society. She was also a former member of the PTA and the American Legion Auxiliary Post 338 in Southwick.
She leaves her loving children, Robert J. Nomakeo and his wife Sandi of Easthampton, Anthony T. Nomakeo of East Granby, CT, Maureen E. Nomakeo of Westfield, and Marsha A. Nomakeo of Waterbury, CT. She also leaves her cherished grandchildren, Anthony, Marissa, Carly Rose, and Dominick; her great-grandchildren, Jolie, Brock, Collette, Camille, Benny, Knox, and Elliette Irene; and her grand dog, Teddy and her cat Mr. Mew.
Her Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 13th, at 8:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church in Westfield. Burial will follow in the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. Donations in memory of Irene may be made to Holy Trinity Church, 335 Elm Street, Westfield, MA 01085. Firtionadams.com
