Irene Johnstonbaugh

Irene Johnstonbaugh, 97, passed away Wednesday, July 11, 2018, in Fort Wayne. Born December 14, 1920, in Wolcottville, Indiana, she was a daughter of Clyde and Darcus (Montgomery) Wilson. She grew up in rural Noble and LaGrange Counties, graduating from Shipshewana High School. She met her husband, Albert Johnstonbaugh, while they were both working at the Kirsch Co. in Sturgis, Michigan. They were married shortly before he began training for his deployment to Europe in World War II. She later worked in Fort Wayne for Essex Wire, Bowser Pump, and Morrill Motors. In retirement, she enjoyed gardening, crafts, visiting family in Sturgis, and attending school functions for her grandson. She was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church. Her family will greatly miss her resolve, her words of encouragement, and her steadfast belief in the ability of her loved ones to succeed. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra (Patrick) Butterbaugh, and grandson, Chad Butterbaugh, both of Fort Wayne, and brother Wayne Wilson of Sturgis, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Johnstonbaugh, in 2015, after 73 years of marriage, and by siblings Margaret Eaton, Blanche Rowe, Henry Wilson, May Roberts, Josephine Moyer, Ray Wilson, Cleo Wilson, Blaine Wilson, Alma Wilson, and Elva Wilson. Funeral service will be 11:30 am, Tuesday, July 17, at C.M. Sloan and Sons Funeral Home, 1327 N. Wells Street, Fort Wayne, with calling two hours prior to service. Burial will be in Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorial donations may be given to Bethel United Methodist Church, Fort Wayne.