Irma Evelyn RukavinaJuly 20, 1927 - July 22, 2013Irma Evelyn Rukavina passed away on Monday, July 22, 2013 at her home in Pocatello, Idaho following a year long struggle with cancer.Irma was born on July 20, 1927 in Warren, Ohio, to Harriet LaDue and Aurthur Schlafke. She grew up in Ashtabula, Ohio. In 1946 she and her mother and brothers moved to Mackay, Idaho. There she met Louis Rukavina and they were married on November 24, 1946 at St. Barbara's Church. They had seven children, Rick, Mike, Steve, Nick, Mattie, Mary, Mala. Louis passed away in 1990. After her husband's death, Irma moved to Pocatello where she had made her home until the time of her death.Irma devoted her life to raising her children. They came first in all that she did. Over the years she shared her passions with them. She enjoyed fishing off the pier behind their home on the Big Lost River and all the kids grew up doing the same. She loved to garden and had beautiful flower beds that were admired by many. Her cinnamon rolls were loved by not just her family, but it seems the little town of Mackay knew when she was baking. She was gifted in crocheting, knitting, quilting and sewing. Each of her grandkids have a beautiful quilt to remember her by. In 1967 Irma and Louis leased Frank's Steakhouse which they ran until 1977. Many friends were made through their years in the Steakhouse and many kids found their first employment with them. Irma and Louis spent many years digging for old bottles. They were displayed in their home for years and were the source for many a story to all who came to visit. For many years Louis and Irma and kids hosted the coffee stand at the annual Mackay Free Barbecue.Irma had an angelic voice which unfortunately was not passed down to her kids. Many nights were spent with family and friends playing pinochle, dominos and cribbage.Irma was a member of the Lady Lions in Mackay and the Altar Society at St. Barbara's Church. She worked at the Mackey High School library for many years. She was awarded the President's Call to Service Award in recognition for her commitment and volunteer serve to St. Vincent DePaul Society.Irma was preceded in death by her husband Louis Rukavina, two brothers, Gordan Schlafke and Bob Schlafke, sister Helen Moy and her twin sister who died at birth.Irma is survived by all her children Rick (Ardis) Rukavina, Mike Rukavina, Fr. Steve Rukavina, Nick (Irene) Rukavina, Mattie (Kenny) Rukavina-Greene, Mary (Frank La Marca) Rukavina Ayers, Mala Rukavina, a brother, Paul Schlafke of Star Valley, WY, 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren with three on the way.A funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Pocatello on Thursday, July 25 at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be held following the Mass. Interment will be Thursday, afternoon at Mount McCaleb Cemetery in Mackay.Funeral arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Downard Funeral Home, Pocatello, Idaho (208) 233-0686.