Obituary of Irene Scharpou

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Irene Pretty Scharpou, aged 88, who peacefully left this world on May 27, 2024, surrounded by her family.  Irene was born on June 4, 1935, in Blaketown, Trinity Bay, Newfoundland, Canada.  She was the first child born to Alfred and Laura Pretty; eldest of eight children. Irene’s life was a remarkable journey of resilience, love, and entrepreneurship.

Irene grew up amidst the rugged beauty of Newfoundland's coastline, where she learned the values of hard work and determination as she helped care for her mother and siblings. At the age of 20, while working at the children's hospital in St. Johns, she met the love of her life, Edward Scharpou, an American soldier stationed in St. Johns, who swept her off her feet at the local dance hall.  With a dream of new opportunities, she bravely moved to the United States in 1960, landing briefly in Virginia before settling in Arietta, New York. Once settled, Irene became a naturalized citizen in 1973.  Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, Irene's indomitable spirit  never wavered and neither did her Newfie accent. 

In 1977, Irene and Ed purchased the Arietta Hotel, what would affectionately be called “The Hotel” by her family.  Irene took great pride in building her hotel, bar and most importantly, her restaurant into a family establishment that quickly became a beloved institution in the lower Adirondacks. Known for her warm smile, homemade rolls and her famous prime rib, Irene's establishment was a place where neighbors gathered, friendships flourished, and the aroma of fresh soup and turkey filled the air. Her secret recipes, thankfully passed to her family, delighted countless patrons and earned her widespread acclaim.

Irene's dedication to her customers was paramount.  They quickly became part of the family and her friendships were always of great importance for her. Her generosity and kindness touched many lives, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

After retiring from the restaurant business (in her youthful eighties), Irene enjoyed spending time with her family, knitting, visiting with her friends and neighbors at Trackside Apartments and taking bus trips around the state with the Johnstown Senior Center.

Beyond her professional achievements, Irene was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She married her beloved husband, Ed, in 1957, and together they raised five children: Linda, Deb, Ed, Terry and Cindy. While Irene's business was important, ultimately her family was the center of her world, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments. 

Irene's legacy is one of perseverance and love. She will be remembered for her entrepreneurial vision, her knack for decorating, love of plants and flowers, her delicious meals (of which there was always too much food), her enormous Christmas village set up and her unwavering kindness. Her family, friends, and the countless patrons of the Arietta Hotel will forever cherish the memories they shared with her.

Irene left her Earthly body to be greeted by her beloved husband Ed, her mother, Laura and father, Alfred, her siblings Evelyn, Lawrence and Charlie and grandparents, Nan and Pop Mercer.  She is survived by her sisters, Ann, Linda and Frances, brother, Leonard; children, Linda (Don), Deborah (Tim), Edward, Terence (Sue) and Lucinda; her nine grandchildren, Angie, Anthony, Kati, Ed, Cassie, Alicia, TJ, Laura and David; and her seventeen great-grandchildren. She is also fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Irene Scharpou's life was a testament to the power of dreams, the strength of community, and the warmth of a loving heart. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A celebration of Irene's life will be held at a later time. 

The family will receive relatives and friends from 4 to 6pm Monday, June 3rd at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home, 51 Fremont St, Gloversville.

A private graveside service will take place at the convenience of the family at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Gloversville, with the Rev. Kate Kelly officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, PO Box 676910, Dallas, TX 75267 (give.bcrf.org).

Online condolences may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com

 The family will receive relatives and friends from 4 to 6pm Monday, June 3rd at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home, 51 Fremont St, Gloversville.

A private graveside service will take place at the convenience of the family at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Gloversville, with the Rev. Kate Kelly officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, PO Box 676910, Dallas, TX 75267 (give.bcrf.org).

Online condolences may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com