Irene V. Hales

Irene Vivian Hales, 92, stepped into eternity on November 8 at her home in Gardner, MA surrounded by loving family. She was born in Gardner, MA on August 18, 1934, the only daughter of the late Wilfred Hill and Helvi (Noponen) Hill. Irene attended Gardner High School and continued on to Boston University where she pursued a career in music.

Over the years, she directed and sang in several church choirs and theater groups. She is most notably known for her portrayal of the Mother Abbess in the Sound of Music and Fruma Sarah in Fiddler on the Roof. Her spontaneous and contagious laughter often left those around her breathless. She deeply loved her family and friends and taught her grandchildren all about Finnish traditions. Irene will long be remembered for her SISU and readiness for a feisty debate about politics.

She held several professional and administrative positions in the Gardner area. She is survived by son Jess D. Hales of Gardner, son Kris A. Hales and his wife Lisa A. Hales of West Yarmouth, daughter Lisa E. Hales of Gardner, grandson Daniel Hales of Boston, and granddaughter Katharine Hales of San Diego, CA.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations in Irene’s memory be made to the Gardner High School Music Program.

Calling hours will be held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Monday, November 16, 2026

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on the same day at Mack Family Funeral Homes – Gardner Chapel at 105 Central St., Gardner, MA.

Mack Family Funeral Homes, Gardner - Chapel, 105 Central Street, Gardner, MA is assisting with Irene's arrangements.