Irene Maloney Lehn

Irene M. Lehn, 90, of New Britain died July 22, 2006 at the Jerome Home. She was born May 10, 1916 in Bridgeport, CT where she grew up. She married Sgt. Louis Y. Lehn on August 7, 1944 and following the war, they established residency in New Britain. She was predeceased by her husband in 1988. She had four children who she dearly loved and was predeceased by her son Joe in 2002 and her daughter Binky in 1970. She is survived by two beloved daughters, Davia Lehn and Christine DiMaio; a grandson, Canyon John DiMaio, a granddaughter, Erin Conover, to whom she was especially connected; and three great-grandchildren, Jacquelyn Parrot, Keith and Lily DiMaio. She is also survived by her sister, Kathleen Speer; and her brother, William Maloney. "Aunt Irene" was the favorite of many nieces and nephews including Noreen Knott with whom she shared a special bond. She established Irene's Corset Shop in 1946 which became a retain fixture of downtown New Britain that was carried on by both of her daughters over the last several years. She cherished her work and her customers at "the store" but no more so than she cherished her family. She was loving and generous not only to her children and family, but to anyone in need. She was a devout catholic and a parishioner and volunteer at St. Maurice Church for many years. She will be remembered by many for her kindness, her hospitality, her beauty, her quick wit, and her laughter-filled green eyes. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 9:00 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 S. Main St. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Maurice Church. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery. Calling hours are Tuesday from 5-8 PM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home. In remembrance of Irene, please perform a special act of kindness towards someone. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the charity of one's choice, especially related to children.