Ethel Ireland

Ethel was born on a small dairy farm on March 11, 1929 in Jackson County, Ohio to Benson and Eula (Charrington) Westlake. Although a simpler time the work was physical and never ending. From childhood, Ethel adored her family. Her oldest sister Maxine Westlake died unexpectedly while attending nursing school. Her brother Wendel would marry after serving in the Navy during WWII. Wendel and his wife Betty Westlake were blessed with four children - Joan Westlake, Jude Westlake Moyer, Janice Westlake. and Wayne Westlake. All who now live in the golden west. Ethel's youngest sister, Carol Schmid had four children as well, Lorraine Otis, Nancy King, George Schmid, and Jane Walter. Ethel was the last surviving member of the Westlake children. She missed her Mother and Daddy, brother and sisters deeply,

Ethel left the farm to move to Columbus, Ohio where she pursued an education in cosmetology. She caught the eye of a young air corp veteran, Arthur Ireland. They married on November 23, 1948. They started their life together humbly in an Airstream trailer, and later to a new house on Waverly Street in the Eastmoor section of Columbus. Their first child Garth joined them, and then later Eric and Brian. Although busy with a young and growing family, she continued her cosmetology career sometimes working late into the evenings and weekends at the salon. Ethel was extremely proud of her sons - as they all graduated from The Ohio State University. Garth and his wife Mary would have 5 children, David, Joseph, Rachel , Sara, and Adena. Eric would have four children, Kathryn, Brant, Garrett, and Kelsey. Ethel was blessed with great-grandchildren.

Ethel and Arthur were married for 62 years. They had enjoyed camping with the boys, traveling, square dancing, and spending time with their grandchildren. Ethel cared for Arthur his last years with strength, compassion, and love. With his passing in 2012, Ethel started her solitary existence with resignation and some excitement. Volunteering at nursing homes to style residents hair and ushering at the Ohio Theater.

Always her greatest joys in life, were her sons, their children, and grandchildren. Eric's wife Teresa became a cherished daughter to her. She would confide that raising 3 boys was an unforeseen gift. The boys gathered around her in those last difficult years and helped her age in her precious home until her healthcare needs were too great. A few years ago she moved to Algart Healthcare Center in Cleveland, to be cared for by her, son Garth Ireland, grandson Joseph Ireland, grandchildren, and his loving staff.

Ethel's life journey ended peacefully with loving family and caring caregivers guiding her back to her beloved childhood home on the farm in Jackson that she spoke of so often, with Mother and Daddy, and siblings.