Iris E. Hemenway, funny, smart and passionate died October 6, 2013 following a short illness. Iris is survived by her children; Louanne Hemenway, Jean Hemenway and Jennifer Hemenway; her grandchildren Rose Blass and Lily Hemenway; her many friends and the country she loved. She is preceded in death by her two beloved brothers, Louis D'Annunzio and Frank D'Annunzio.
To those who really knew her, she was Iris the Lionhearted. Brave and strong she always fought for her family and beliefs. Her passions included her family (especially her granddaughter and best pal Lily), her work, Frank Sinatra, the Steelers and chocolate. Her dislikes were slow drivers, messy houses and liberal politics.
Always "taking care of business", Iris was proud of her career and worked for over 40 years for the Utah Department Corrections. Throughout the years she won many awards including Utah State Employee of the Year but her biggest reward was knowing that she made a difference. A true innovator she served at various times as Director of Parkview Community Corrections Center, Chief of Security - Wasatch, head of the 90 day Diagnostic Unit and until age 84 as a Pro Tem member of the Board of Pardons. Once asked what made her so good at working with inmates she wryly replied it was 20 years of experience as a volunteer with the Girl Scouts and while no one got the connection but mom, the passion she brought to all her endeavors ensured success.
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no formal services but her family will be celebrating her life during each and every Steeler's game… See mom, we finally caught the vision. She will be greatly missed!
