Irena Kapitula

Irena Kapitula, 59, of North Caldwell, NJ, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 29, 1967, in Owczarki, Poland, Irena grew up just down the road from the man who would eventually become the love of her life, Andrzej. Together, they dreamed of building a better life and a family of their own. Andrzej immigrated to the United States first, while Irena remained in Poland waiting for the day they could be reunited. In 1989, while pregnant with their daughter, Monika, Irena was finally able to join him in the United States. Monika was born the following year, and a few years later they welcomed their son, Michael.

Those early years were defined by hard work, sacrifice, and an unwavering determination to create a wonderful life for their growing family. Later in life, Irena discovered a passion and remarkable talent for real estate, building a successful career working side by side with Andrzej. Together, they made quite a team, finding properties, taking chances, and building a life beyond what they once could have imagined. She had an extraordinary eye and natural ability to see what something could become.

For all that she accomplished, however, nothing mattered more to Irena than her family.

As a mother, there was nothing she would not do for her children. Whether it meant driving to Michigan every weekend to watch Michael play soccer or showing up in Fairfield simply to brighten Monika’s day, Irena was always there. Her love was expressed through action, through showing up, taking care of the people around her, and making certain that those she loved never had to wonder how much they meant to her. She was fiercely devoted, deeply loyal, and endlessly giving.

Becoming a grandmother brought Irena tremendous joy. She adored her grandson, Peter, whom she affectionately called “Piotrus,” and her granddaughter, Emilia, who carries so many of her Baba’s beautiful features and unmistakable facial expressions. The time and love she shared with them will remain a part of their lives forever.

Irena was wonderfully difficult to describe in just a few words because she was so many things at once. She was funny and feisty, nurturing and selfless, strong and determined. She could fill a room with laughter, stand her ground when something mattered, and make the people she loved feel completely cared for.

She especially loved bringing people together. Her home was a gathering place, always filled with warmth, laughter, wonderful meals, and the people she loved most. Everyone was welcome.

Irena is survived by her husband of nearly 39 years, Andrzej; her children, Michael and Monika (Peter) Holland; and her beloved grandchildren, Peter and Emilia. She is also survived by her sister, Janina Kaniuk, as well as many extended family members and lifelong friends who were fortunate to know and love her.

Irena leaves behind far more than the homes she helped build or the life she and Andrzej created together. Her legacy lives in the family she loved so fiercely, in the countless people she welcomed into her home, and in the generosity, strength, humor, and devotion that defined the way she lived her life.

Visitation will be held at Marrocco Memorial Chapel in Clifton, NJ on Sunday, August 30 from 2:00-4:00 PM and 6:00-8:00 PM with Parastas at 7 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Passaic, NJ on Monday, August 31 at 10:30 AM.

Irena will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.