Irene was married to the late Donald C Palmer and was a loving mother to Donald C (Mary) Palmer Jr, Teresa Palmer, and Daughter-In-Law Judy Palmer. She was preceded in death by her daughter Catherine Conger and son Jamison Mark (Judy) Palmer. She was the proud grandmother of Glenn and Brad VandeWater, Alicia (Palmer) Cameron, Jillian Palmer, and Bryan and Ashley Conger. Irene was blessed with 4 great grandchildren, Morgan, Ely, Elliot, and Kayden. In addition, she is also survived by her sister Margaret Kowalski and brother Owen James “Sonny” Coyle. Preceding her in death are Frances Elizabeth (Coyle) Mckenna, Michael Coyle, James Coyle, Charles Coyle and Patrick Coyle.
First and foremost, Irene had a deep love of family. When the family was younger, they have a fond memory of camping in Caseville and Irish Hills. Christmas was always a special time for her and so was the tradition to visit Santa and take family pictures. She cherished her family gatherings with her children and grandchildren in addition to family reunions with sisters, brothers, and cousins. Nothing made Irene happier than having family around and she would go to the ends of the earth for them.
Irene was considered one of the luckiest persons ever. She loved to bet on the horses, play bingo, lotteries, go to the casinos, and a favorite was “the Kentucky Derby”. Rarely did she go away a loser or at least she would not tell you. Her answer would be ‘I did all right’ but would never tell you what she invested. Card games with her family and fellow friends was always on the agenda and loved watching sports especially the Detroit Tigers!
At 95 years old Irene lived independently, garnering her the award of being the most senior resident in her complex. She loved life, family, friends, and will be missed by all.
Irene’s life will be celebrated with a Memorial Service on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at Edward Swanson & Son Funeral Home, 30351 Dequindre Rd, (south of 13 Mile Rd) in Madison Heights. Visitation will be from 10 am – 1pm with the Memorial Service starting at 1pm.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.edwardswansonandsonfuneralhome.com for the Palmer family.
