James E. Irelan
October 8, 1935 – March 1, 2025
No public services are planned. Jim will be laid to rest at Boughton Cemetery in a private graveside service. Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, c/o the funeral home. The family would like to thank his caregivers at Alamo Cove Assisted Living Center and Centrica Care Navigators for the love and care shown to Jim during the past several years.
Obituary
Age 89 of Kalamazoo passed away Saturday night, March 1, 2025, after a lengthy fight with Alzheimer’s Disease. Jim was born in Redkey, IN, the son of Peter and Helen (Brenner) Irelan. Jim proudly served his nation in the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean Conflict. He also served in the Michigan and Indiana National Guard achieving the rank of Sargeant First Class. Jim was an avid sportsman and was a big Detroit Tigers fan. He worked for over 30 years at Parker Aerospace. His family was the most important thing to him. Jim is survived by his son, Michael (Marsha) Irelan of Kalamazoo; grandchildren, Ivy (Ryan) Whitney and Zachary Irelan; great grandchildren, Julia and Michael Whitney; brothers, Jerry Irelan and Joe Hughey; nieces and nephews; and many friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Wanda; and daughter, Sherry Lynn Scott.
Michael & Marsha: Our deepest sympathies on the passing of your dad. May he rest in peace.
What an exceptional man. When Jim married my mom Sharon in 1988 and spent over 30 years with her, he became our step father. We loved him so much and have such special memories from our many family gatherings to carry with us after his passing. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and joined Chapman memorial several years ago so we know we will see him again after we pass away. We have many photos and many loving memories of him even from the nursing home from the last few years. He knows how much we loved him! We will miss him.