Irene Toavs
Irene Josephine (Rensvold) Toavs, 99, of Wolf Point died June 25, 2026.
She was born Aug. 20, 1926, the seventh of eight children to Arthur and Josie (Felberg) Rensvold. She was born and raised on a farm about 15 miles north of Wolf Point. She attended Dryfork country school and graduated in 1945 from Wolf Point High School.
John was the love of her life from the time she was 6 years old when she first saw him at the wedding of his brother and her sister. When John returned home from the military, he and Irene began dating. They were married and moved a few miles from their childhood homes where they farmed and ranched together for 68 years. During their time together, they truly enjoyed their family and an active and full life and were deeply connected to the land and the community. She spent her life embracing the values of faith, family, hard work and kindness.
Through changing seasons and generations, the farm remained the center of family life and a place filled with love, laughter and treasured memories.
She was a devoted member of First Lutheran Church. Her faith was an important part of her life and guided her in her service to her family and community.
Her greatest joy was her family. She loved attending all activities the kids were involved in, gathering with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great- great- grandchildren, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. She also enjoyed playing games, reading, sewing and gardening. Whether tending flowers, stitching something special, sharing a good book, cooking delicious meals for the family, baking the best pies ever or enjoying time with loved ones, she found happiness in life's simple pleasures.
She is survived by her children, Cathy Madison, John A. Toavs Jr., Cheryl Ryan and Kay Lovelace; 13 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Toavs; three great-grandchildren, Zoey Kay Marie York, Enzo Ray Rucinsky and Finn Alexander Rucinsky; and seven siblings. She was the last surviving member of her high school class of 1945.
A celebration of life service will be held at First Lutheran Church in Wolf Point on Aug. 1 at 10 a.m.
