HOPEWELL JUNCTION—Irene C. Keyes, 62, of Hopewell Junction, died at Vassar Brothers Medical Center on Saturday, July 2, 2011 following complications from a sudden brain hemorrhage.
She was born March 7, 1949 in Middletown, N.Y., the daughter of Edward C. and the late Mary Rotter Lukach. Irene was a graduate of Middletown High School in 1967, SUNY Brockport in 1971, and completed post-graduate work at Union College in 1985.
Irene married Richard J. Keyes, Jr. in Poughkeepsie on April 11, 1987. He survives at home, with their sons William E. Keyes, a senior at Carnegie Mellon University, and Brian P. Keyes, a 2011 Arlington graduate and incoming freshman at Rochester Institute of Technology. Irene was predeceased by her daughter, Jenny, in 1989.
Irene is survived by her father, Edward C. Lukach of Punta Gorda, Florida, her brother and sister-in-law Edward W. and MaryLou Lukach of Fort Ogden, FL., and their children, Edward, Darren, Andrea, and their families.
Irene retired from the Spackenkill Union Free School District in 2004, where, over the course of 33 years, she taught in all four schools. She started her career at the High School teaching mathematics, and later was instrumental in designing and implementing the computer science curriculum. In addition, Irene served as mathematics department coordinator, as well as coaching cheerleading and advising the Computer Club. As the need for computer skills instruction increased, Irene expanded the program to include the middle school, and then completed her teaching career as technology integrator at Nassau and Hagan Elementary Schools. After her retirement, she continued to share her passion for teaching by launching her business, "Play Math With Me," to instill a love of mathematics in children.
In addition to teaching, Irene actively participated in numerous area organizations. Her leadership role in the American Association of University Women enabled the local chapter to earn a 501(c)(3) designation, laying the foundation for their long-term vision to achieve gender equity. She wrote grants to create an umbrella program called "Equity For Life" to fund initiatives like the regional Girls' Conference, the "Leading To Reading" literacy project, and the "Make Math Fun" tutoring programs.
A dedicated member of the Arlington family, Irene worked tirelessly for the PTSA and the Arlington Band Boosters. She ran "Reflections," an arts contest enabling Arlington students to compete at state and national levels, and she was instrumental in re-launching the Math, Science & Technology Expo. Her work on behalf of the marching band and other music programs brought joy to the thousands who participated. Additionally, she organized the Friends of Mills Mansion annual golf tournaments at Dinsmore Golf Course, and assisted Eagle Scout candidates from Boy Scout Troup 182. In all her endeavors, Irene was committed to helping others.
Irene delighted in creating arts and crafts. Her artistic ability was evidenced in her sewing, her quilting, and her painting projects. Irene loved her home decorating and her gardening, especially her colorful irises. Irene was an enthusiastic supporter of the musical endeavors of her family. Yet, her greatest love shone in the creation of a wonderful family. Rich, her two sons, and their myriad accomplishments will be her finest legacy.
Irene's family will receive friends on Saturday, July 9, 2011, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. A celebration of Irene's life will follow at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of the organizations of which Irene was a part, or to either of two charities close to Irene's heart: the Alzheimer's Association, 2 Jefferson Plaza, Suite 103, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 or the American Cancer Society , 2678 South Road, Suite 102, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
For driving directions, memorial donations, or to send the family an online condolence, please visit www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.