By Karen Andrew
The Cincinnati Enquirer

M. Irene Kennedy Seiwert was a tireless volunteer, and along with her husband, Dr. Vincent J. Seiwert, helped improve the quality of health care for the indigent.

"She was just like a mother to you," said Kathy Bressler, a longtime friend. "Anything she did, she did her best."

The Clifton resident died Thursday at Mercy Franciscan Hospital-Mount Airy. Born in Los Angeles, she attended Manhattanville School in New York and graduated from the University of Detroit with a bachelor's degree in journalism.

She went on to Washington to work at the Pentagon. Trained in operatic singing, she sang at funerals and weddings in the Arlington National Cemetery chapel. It was there that a priest introduced her to Army Capt. Vincent J. Seiwert, who was serving as a post surgeon. They were married in 1948 and later moved to Cincinnati, Dr. Seiwert's hometown.

From 1951-71, Mrs. Seiwert served as a volunteer and board member of the Volunteer Guild at St. Mary's Hospital in Queensgate and the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor.

She served on the Mercy Franciscan Health Care System Mount Airy Auxiliary Board for 22 years in all capacities, from treasurer to two terms as president.

Mrs. Seiwert was a founder and former president of the Auxiliary Board of St. Clare Retirement Community of Wyoming and helped raise thousands of dollars to assist community members. She also volunteered at St. John Social Service Center in Over-the-Rhine.

Survivors include her husband of 55 years; daughters Peggy of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Diane of College Hill and Christina Ulrich of Clifton; sons Dr. Vincent R. of Atlanta, and David J., of Lakeland Fla.; and four grandchildren.

Mass of Christian burial is 10:30 a.m. todayat St. Boniface Church, 1740 Chase Avenue, Northside.

Memorials: Mercy Franciscan Terrace Benevolent Fund, 100 Compton Road, Cincinnati 45215; or St. John Social Service Center, 112 E. 13 Street, Cincinnati 45210.

E-mail kandrew@enquirer.com