Sara Ihrke

Sara Ann Patricia (Murphy) Ihrke, 81, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and nurse, passed away peacefully at Roger Metz Manor, leaving behind a legacy of love, care, and compassion.

Born on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 1943, Sara was a source of pride for her Irish Catholic father. Her life embodied the warmth and resilience of her heritage.

In 1965, Sara graduated from nursing school in Rochester, Minnesota, and began her career as an OB-GYN nurse in Minneapolis. Her passion for helping others quickly became the hallmark of her work. She married the love of her life, Jim Ihrke, in 1966 at St. Augustine's Church in Austin, Minnesota. Together, they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on love and family.

Following their wedding, Sara and Jim moved to Boulder, Colorado, where they welcomed their son, Todd. The family later moved to Winona, Minnesota, where Jim completed his degree at Winona State University. Afterward, they returned to Colorado, welcoming their daughter, Jennifer. Ultimately, the family settled in Rochester, Minnesota, where Sara balanced her roles as a devoted wife, mother, and dedicated nurse.

For over 35 years, Sara served patients at Olmsted Medical Center Hospital, primarily in the emergency room. She exemplified professionalism, empathy, and boundless love for her work. Her dedication extended beyond her career, as she embraced research opportunities to aid in the fight against frontal lobe dementia (FTD), a disease she faced with grace and courage in her later years.

Sara found her greatest joy in her family. She adored her husband, children, and grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent together. Whether hosting holidays in her home, traveling the world, or gathering with her siblings, Sara created lasting traditions and cherished memories. She also enjoyed an active lifestyle, playing tennis, golfing, skiing, and dancing to 50's music with her loved ones.

Sara is survived by her husband, Jim; her children, Todd (Jennifer) Ihrke and Jennifer (Tom) Walters; and her grandchildren, Ethan, Lily, and Sam. As well as a loving extended family of step-grandchildren Alex Pearson (Cassy), Maria Slinkman (William), Rebecca Heidel (Daniel), and Amanda Bekkum (Adam). She was preceded in death by her parents, her nephews Mark Shannon Murphy, Alan Ihrke, her in-laws Dean Ihrke, Glen Ihrke, Marlow Ihrke,and Janice Moehnke.

The family request donations in memory of Sara sent to Winona Area Hospice, 175 East Wabasha, Winona, Mn 55987

A celebration of Sara's life will be held in the spring, honoring her love, strength, and enduring legacy.