Irene Vari Chalupa, 79, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on March 10, 1947, in Tótszentmárton, Hungary, Irene was the oldest of four daughters born to Istvan and Maria Vari. Her childhood was shaped by extraordinary circumstances. After her family fled Hungary, they spent time in refugee camps throughout Europe before settling temporarily in Belgium, where Irene learned French. Eventually, the family immigrated to the United States in search of a better future.

Like so much of her life, Irene's path forward was built on determination and hard work. She put herself through college, graduating from Montclair State University, and went on to build a career doing what she loved most: teaching.

For 34 years, Irene taught French, a career that perfectly matched her love of learning and connecting with people. She shared her enthusiasm for language and culture with generations of students and chaperoned countless trips abroad, helping many young people experience the world beyond their hometowns.

Outside the classroom, Irene was endlessly curious about the world. She loved researching destinations, planning trips, joining clubs in retirement, and learning about different cultures. Few things made her happier than discovering a new place, trying a new food, or sitting down to a meal and taking the time to truly enjoy it. She believed life was meant to be savored, not rushed.

She also had a remarkable green thumb and found joy in tending her gardens. Friends and family knew her for her quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and honesty. If Irene had something to say, she said it. She appreciated authenticity, loved a good conversation, and never understood why anyone would voluntarily wake up early.

More than anything, Irene loved her family. Being a mother and grandmother brought her the greatest happiness and pride. Bragging about her grandchildren was one of her favorite pastimes.

She is survived by her son, Andrew Chalupa, daughter-in-law Amber, and grandson Kanin of Solvang, California; her daughter, Amy Chalupa Grim, son-in-law Theron, and grandchildren Myles and Maggie of Wakefield, Rhode Island; and her son, Justin Chalupa of West Kingston, Rhode Island.

She is also survived by her sisters, Ida Salopek and Agi Vannucci, her brother-in-law Lawrence Vannucci, her brother-in-law Joseph Keresztes, and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Rose Keresztes and brother-in-law Hans Salopek.

Her family would like to thank everyone who offered care, friendship, and support to Irene throughout her life and during her final days.

Though we will miss her deeply, we take comfort in the many lessons she leaves behind: stay curious, keep learning, embrace new experiences, take the trip, and never rush a good meal.

A celebration of Irene's life will be held at a later date.

In Lieu of Flowers

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Irene's memory to the Johnnycake Center of Hope in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, to help local families in need. To honor Irene's lifelong love of gardening and nature, the family also invites you to plant something beautiful in her memory.

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