Irene Willison

The world lost a unique voice with the passing of Irene. At 96 years old, she still lived independently, other than meal deliveries, and took no medications. She was a woman of faith who spent many hours studying her Bible and teaching others to do the same. She was a “working woman” who attended Aquinas College before either of those were cultural norms, but also chose to be a stay-at-home mother of six. She lived through the difficulties of the Great Depression, the Second World War, of giving birth to her first child while her husband served overseas, and, later in life, the losses of her husband, daughter, and grandson. But even in the worst moments her enormous personality brought fun, excitement, and laughter to those around her – sometimes by saying out loud what others only thought. Although her 96 years were filled with stories and adventures, the conversations in her last days made clear that nothing brought Irene her more joy than having a large family and living long enough to see her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have adventures of their own.

She will be remembered by her children Edward (Mary) Willison Jr., Craig (Cheryl) Willison, Shelly Steegstra, Valerie (Mark) Henderson, and Stephen (Kim) Willison;18 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Irene was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Willison Sr.; parents Floyd and Nellie Trombley; sister and brother-in-law Shirley and Gene Olmsted; daughter, Wendolyn Willison; son-in-law, Bruce Steegstra; and grandson, George McNees III.

Visitation with Irene’s family and friends will be held from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, January 11, 2024, with a Rosary beginning at 7:30 p.m., at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Friday, January 12, 2024, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3937 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery, in Wyoming, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Irene, contributions may be made to Meals at Home at Sunset Senior Communities (sunsetcommunities.org/donate/). Irene's family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guest book online.