Irene Marie Lavagnino Simoni passed away on August 28, 2025. She was born and raised in Arcata and celebrated her 95th birthday on June 22nd with family and friends. Irene was a graduate of Arcata High School in 1947. She attended Eureka Business College, following which she joined her dad, Angelo, and staff at A.T. Distributing Co. Soon after she caught the eye of a handsome red-headed fellow by the name of Gino Simoni. They were married on September 24, 1950 and became parents of son, Steve, and daughter, Gina. Years later her dad and Gino went into partnership and opened the L&S Beverage Co., where Irene was bookkeeper/secretary.

Irene was active in the Italian Catholic Federation and the Sons & Daughters of Italy, where she was treasurer for many years until her passing. She enjoyed the companionship of many friends, family BBQs, picnics and family gatherings and was well known for her hospitality and culinary skills. Irene also enjoyed traveling to Italy, Alaska, the East Coast and many outings with her daughter and son-in-law, Gina and Edgar Roden.

Irene is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Peggy Simoni, of Dayton , Nevada; her daughter and son-in-law, Gina and Edgar Roden of McKinleyville; and brother and sister-in-law, Angelo, Jr. and LeAnne Lavagnino of Clovis, California.

Other survivors are granddaughters and husbands, Kellie and Thomas Richards of McKinleyville; April and Nick Gonzalez of San Antonio, Texas; and Jenny Williams of San Antonio, Texas. Great grandchildren are Jaxon Richards; Sebastian and Amelia Gonzalez; and Kira, Jasmine, Kaylee and Jade Williams. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Irene was proceeded in death by her beloved Gino, parents, Angelo, Sr. and Rose Lavagnino, and her long-time friend and “sister”, Margie Adams. Irene and Margie were best friends for 92 years. She can now join her best friend and her mother for their Monday morning “coffee chats” and evening martinis in heaven. Irene was like a walking encyclopedia. We will miss the many childhood stories she told.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 12 at St. Mary’s Church, 1690 Janes Rd., Arcata at 9:30 a.m. followed by graveside services at Ocean View Cemetery, 3975 Broadway, Eureka. A reception will be held at St. Mary’s Church Annex from 1 to 4 p.m. Honorary pallbearers will be Edgar Roden, Thomas Richards, Peter Lavagnino, Tim and T.J. Hamel, and Mike Lagaz.

The family would like to thank Dr. Han and nurse, Miranda, who helped care for Irene while at Granada.

The family requests in lieu of flowers donations be made in Irene’s memory to Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, Eureka Lodge 1274, Scholarship account: P.O. Box 284, Hydesville, CA 95547, Attn: Scholarship committee.

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