Irma Graciela Gallardo Narezo

Irma Graciela Gallardo Narezo, passed peacefully in her home at the age of 96, surrounded by family on November 21st, 2025 in Lansing, Michigan.
Born to Maria Maxmianna Ibarra and Alfonso Gallardo on November 20th, 1929 in Chihuahua, Mexico, Irma began what was to become a tremendous life. In 1948, Irma arrived in the United States at the age of 19 with her husband at the time, Phil Kline. They lived in El Paso, Texas and moved around the world, living in places such as Missouri, Okinawa, Japan, and eventually planted herself in Lansing, Michigan.
Irma married Victor Leonard Narezo in 1962 and In 1970, they adopted Victor Miguel Narezo (known to family as Miguel). In Lansing, she became a cherished member of the community. She took pride in working at Sveden House in Lansing until they closed their doors. For more than two decades she served with a smile as a waitress at Lansing's Old Country Buffet, where she retired at the age of 80, in 2009. She was known there for her singing voice and a kindness that touched the lives of many. After retirement, Irma embraced the role of a stay-at-home grandmother -- a title she wore with pride and joy.
Irma's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. She loved sewing, cooking traditional Mexican meals, and her green thumb that brought life to her garden. Her talents for singing and dancing were truly remarkable; Irma had a voice that could fill a room with joy. Her love of music led her into the afterlife, with Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love" playing the moment she passed. She easily became the life of a party anywhere she went and lit the room with her smile.
Her life was filled with so much adventure and strength that she inspired the semi-biographical novel, Floaters of Irma, and a prospective play, Happy Birthday, You're Deported, both by ex-husband, Phil Kline.
Those who knew Irma will remember her as loving, funny, and selfless. Her ability to find humor in the everyday brought light to even the dullest moments, and her selflessness was evident in every act of kindness she bestowed upon others.
Irma is survived by her devoted son, Victor, daughter-in-law Martinique "Marti" Narezo, grandchildren Kaitlyn Kleman (Damian Kleman), Aidyn Narezo, and Colin Narezo, great-grandchild Leia Kleman, fellow grandparents Barbara and Daniel Heany, and siblings Rosa, Carlos, Josefina, and Luis. She is predeceased by her parents Maria Ibarra and Alfonso Gallardo, and siblings Mario, Oscar, and Ramidio.
The family extends a heartfelt gratitude to Elara Hospice for their dedicated love and kindness during Irma's final days. A Celebration of life may be announced at a later date.