Irene Mary Nelson, 81 years, of Fort Madison, Iowa died Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at the Great River Hospice House, West Burlington, Iowa. She was born March 22, 1938, a daughter of Luis and Margaret (Enriquez) Salazar. She first married Ernest Guzman, they had three children: Lance, Diane, and Stephanie. They later divorced. She then married Gaspar Reyes, they had one son, Gaspar. They later divorced.

Irene lived most of her life in Fort Madison. Years ago, she worked as a bookkeeper for the Chevrolet dealership in Fort Madison. She also owned and operated the Sahara Supper Club in Fort Madison and Caspar's in the Westland Mall, West Burlington, Iowa. She was a member of Holy Family Parish. She loved to cook, sing, and dance.

She is survived by one son, Lance Guzman of Fort Madison; one daughter, Diane (Steve) Wick of Fort Madison; one brother, Manuel Salazar (Susan Butler) of Fort Madison; one sister, Sallie (Ronnie) Doty of Kirkwood, Illinois; grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, one son Gaspar Reyes, and one daughter Stephanie Guzman.

Her body has been cremated. Further arrangements will be made at a later date. Barr Memorial Chapel is honored to serve Irene's Family.