John Applonie
A Tribute to Irene Mountisne
It was 51 years ago that my Family bought the home across the street on Celia Way from the Mountisne’s. It was my 4th birthday – December 30, 1968 – which is why I remember. Celia Way was a dead end street at that time and both our homes bordered an irrigation ditch and farmers’ fields to the south. Nick soon became close friends with myself and older brother Marv.
It seemed Nick was only child and I was from a growing family of four. But I soon met Nancy and was fascinated by the phonograph she had in their basement, especially loved “The Monkeys” & “The Beatles” albums she had, I think she also had “The Jackson Five” – I was hooked to Rock and Roll for life.
“Thanks Nancy!”
I was a young lad just 4-5 years old and learned that the Mountisne’s were from Pennsylvania, some far off mysterious land I had never even imagined. I soon learned, from Rene’s actions, that people from Pennsylvania were thoughtful, patient and kind. As a preschooler and even an early Elementary school student, I am sure that I tracked mud in her house, left cookie crumbs after an Oreo treat and even spilt soda on the table in our haste to snack and return to the playground provided by that dead end. Never did I hear a word of correction or disapproval, she knew how to let boys be boys.
My entire childhood was spent growing up across the street from Rene and Family. Red & Green Christmas lights dutifully installed each Holiday season. Mountisne worked the landscape to perfection each year. Rene’s car has air-conditioning so it was always a pleasure to ride to and fro the Layton swimming pool with her. Many in indelible memory.
Her genuine kindness and recognition that “all kids” were children and gifts from God were facts that she demonstrated, I know because I was on the receiving side of Rene’s actions, and one of her admirers!
Rene introduced me to the game of bowling. At six or seven years old I certainly was no prodigy in the making but is was always exciting to see her delight in winning and her sportsmanship demonstrated if she was NOT on the winning side.
To me Rene “lived” a true Christ like example of how to interact and relate to other people in this world. She had a consistent thoughtfulness in this realm that will not be easily replaced.
“Rest Peacefully - Irene Barbara Mountisne!” Judgment Day will smile down upon you!
(To the Grandkid’s)
Nick and I grew up together and I had the pleasure of watching Rene take immaculate care of her son. She purchased Nick a 1969 Pontiac GTO for his 16th birthday. Nick was indulged and usually got his way. But one should never forget the Rene was actually in charge.
One Friday afternoon Nick and I were planning the trip to cruise Washington Boulevard in Ogden. Rene did not approve. The reader will have to ask Nick what Rene did with the hammer that afternoon, but I will say that the GTO did not go to Ogden.
My Warmest Regards Rene!
John D. Applonie