Justine Carol Irwin, a beloved mother, educator, writer, and community member, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, in Grand Junction, Colorado. She was born on September 11, 1933, in Longmont, Colorado, to Bill and Inez Fritze.
Justine lived a full and vibrant life, marked by her passionate dedication to education, her love for writing, and her unwavering commitment to her family and community.
Justine grew up in a family that cherished learning and literature. Her love for books began early, fostered by her father’s German sisters, who brought a wealth of literature into their home.
In 1941, her family relocated to Ohio due to her father's work on a six month assignment. Due to the war they ended up having to stay in Ohio leaving all their toys and books in storage in Colorado. During that time, the local public library became a sanctuary for Justine and her sister Paula. Together, they both read and acted out the books.
Later, Justine found the medical books of her grandfather Dr. Willard J. White in his medical library. Information with pictures of anatomy were very interesting to her. Justine also read many of the revolutionary war books she found there. The American Indian books particularly caught her attention, where she gained the lifelong passion of engaging with Navajos and Zunis in Arizona, where she often taught classes. This formative experience would ignite a lifelong passion for reading and storytelling.
After graduating from Roosevelt High School in Des Moines, Iowa, Justine pursued higher education at Iowa State University, where she earned a dual Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics and Journalism, along with a minor in Telecommunicative Arts. Her career in education began in 1960 when she took on the role of a fourth-grade teacher in Grand Lake, Colorado. She later moved to Meeker High School, where she taught English and Home Economics, served as the Speech team coach, and spent over thirty years making a profound impact on her students' lives.
On August 6, 1955, Justine married Frank Irwin, a partnership that blossomed from their shared love of history and literature. Together, they navigated the challenges of early married life with resilience and a common passion for learning. Justine was a devoted mother to her children, Charles and Tomas and she cherished her granddaughters Rachel and Theresa, and a grandson and her nieces, Lori, Kathy, Carol, and Mary Marin.
Justine faced the heartbreak of losing her beloved husband Frank in 2013, her son Thayne February 8, 1960 - January 28, 1961 (pneumonia), and her adopted son Tomas, yet her spirit remained an inspiration to all.
Justine's contributions to her community were immense. She served as the Chairman of the Administrative Council of the United Methodist Church in Meeker and was actively involved in mental health advocacy through the Colorado West Regional Mental Health Board. She also volunteered at the mining museum in Nederland and served as a liturgist at the Nederland Community Presbyterian Church, demonstrating her commitment to service and education. She was an active member of the Lions Club and the Nederland Area Seniors.
A lifetime Girl Scout, Justine's impact was felt far and wide as she took on leadership roles in several Girl Scout councils, inspiring generations of young girls with her passion for the outdoors and community service. She was the District Director and Public Relations Director at the Moingona Girl Scout Council in Iowa. Then she became the Council District Director at Mountain Plains Girl Scout Council, in addition to running several summer camps in Colorado.
Her literary talents flourished as she became a freelance writer, producing articles for various publications, children's stories, poetry, and even fiction. Her love for her surroundings led her to write a comprehensive history of the White River National Forest, reflecting her deep connection to the natural world.
Justine was known for her vibrant personality, infectious smile, and her ability to connect with others. She had a remarkable gift for making friends in every corner of her life. Her interests ranged from engaging with Navajo and Zuni cultures in Arizona to documenting the rich history of Nederland.
She wrote constantly, always carrying notebooks and pens, capturing the world around her and the stories within it. Her creative spirit was evident as she worked on a novel set in the historical context of Estes Park, Boulder, and Nederland during the vibrant 1970s.
As we remember Justine, we celebrate a life well-lived—one filled with love, creativity, and a profound commitment to education and community. She is survived by the Ball Family in Nederland. Her legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren, and the countless individuals she touched throughout her remarkable journey.
Justine's funeral will be held on August 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Arapahoe Ranch in Nederland, Colorado, where friends and family are invited to honor her life and share fond memories.
Justine Carol Irwin will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she so freely gave.
