Irene Bortz, 74, of Bethlehem, died April 11, 2026 at Gracedale Nursing Home. Born on July 14, 1951, in Bavaria, Germany, she was the daughter of the late Wasyl and Irene (Batchinsky) Motruk.

She was a production assembler for companies including State Hospital, Lucent Technologies and Amcore throughout her career in the manufacturing industry.

She had a deep affection for her beloved dogs, Shaggy, Jasper, and Willow, who brought immense joy into her life.

She enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, from leisurely days spent sitting on her front porch conversing with neighbors to indulging in episodes of “The Golden Girls,” which never failed to bring a smile to her face.

She is survived by her daughter, Stacy Ellis; grandson, Keith Ellis, Jr.; sisters, Mary Shupp and Anna Mintzer; nieces, Brena Andrews and Jennifer Farrar; nephew, Todd Mintzer; and five great nieces and nephews, Brittany, Jade, Jordan, Evan, and Lily.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her niece, Tamala Shupp.

Arrangements were made by Connell Funeral Home.