Irene "Rene" Horstman

Irene L. Horstman, age 78, of St. Paul Park, Minnesota, passed away peacefully while surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, March 16, 2023. Her visitation will be 11 AM with Memorial Service beginning at 1 PM, Sunday, March 26, 2023 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80^th St. S., Cottage Grove, Minnesota 55016. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.  

Irene Louise was the fifth and last child born to Charles and Hazel (nee Shepard) Killinger, on May 9, 1944 at St. Joseph’s hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota. Irene grew up on 1^st Ave. in South St. Paul and graduated from South St. Paul High School.  

Irene went to work in the medical field. While working at Divine Redeemer Hospital, she met her future husband, Bruce Horstman. They were married on July 7, 1973. They purchased a home in St. Paul Park, Minnesota where they still live today. Together they lovingly raised their daughter, Cindy.  

Irene and Bruce enjoyed the outdoors. They were avid Hunters and Fisherman. Each year, they would make multiple fishing trips including to Canada where they caught many fish and made so many more memories. They also traveled to Park Rapids every fall for their annual hunting trip. They hosted family gatherings at their home for St. Paul Park’s Heritage Days Celebration, where everyone was always welcome. To many, she was more than Irene, she was Auntie Rene as she opened the doors of her home and made it feel like it was their own. 

Irene was a proud member of the Red Hat Society, where she brought joy and entertained others. She loved crafts, ceramics, and card marking. She blessed those at the Senior Center- South Washington County with her crafts and teachings. She also enjoyed spending time with friends at the VFW “Red Barn” listening to the “Johnny No Cash Band”. Through the years, she volunteered her time at elementary schools in the community as a Foster Grandparent. She met faithfully monthly with friends to play Bunco. Her radiant smile will be deeply missed by all.

She was preceded in death by parents, Charles and Hazel Killinger; siblings, Wilbur “Bud” (Bonnie) Killinger, Nona (Jerry) Jordahl, Glenna (John) Speth, Marceil (Lew) Buss; niece, Lorna Horpedahl; great-nephew, Daniel Angel; and great-niece, Melissa Buss. Survived by devoted husband of 50 years, Bruce; daughter, Cindy (Rick) Bachrodt; and many loving nieces, nephews; and other extended family and friends.  

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in Irene's service via livestream, you can watch the service on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at 1:00 PM (CT). It can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page, and "CLICK PLAY" to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having troubles with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.