Photo courtesy of Howe-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Dearborn Location
Dearborn, Michigan
Dec 24, 1926 – Apr 29, 2021 (Age 94)
Irene Cookinham, of Dearborn, Michigan and Sarasota, Florida passed away in Sarasota on April 29, 2021 at the age of 94. She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Franklin Cookinham of Dearborn and dear sister of the late Vincent Drobnak of Allen Park.
Irene graduated from Michigan State University. She retired from Ford Motor Company’s design center after 35 years of service. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dearborn and St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Sarasota.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 10, 3-5pm at the Dearborn Chapel of Howe-Peterson Funeral Home. Funeral Mass 11am Tuesday, May 11, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
Interment in Glen Eden Cemetery, Livonia.
Memorial contributions in Irene’s honor are suggested to the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation (30400 Telegraph Rd Suite #150, Bingham Farms, MI 48025), the Michigan Cancer Society (20450 Civic Center Dr, Southfield, MI 48076, Sacred heart Catholic Church (22430 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48124, and St. Thomas More Catholic Church (2506 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota, FL 34231).
Read MoreLong time gone now, but never forgotten.! Her gentle nature will continue to live in my memory
Adrienne Matcham
April 28, 2025 | Sarasota, FL | Neighbor
I recently learned about Irene's passing. Life took us on different paths and we hadn't seen each other in about 6-7 years. I enjoyed her wit and intelligence -- and definitely her love of life. I know you are with your beloved husband -- and that makes me happy. liliane.
Liliane Lykes
July 10, 2023
Irene always thought of others and if she saw a need she did what she could to fill it. She loved to make little children her friends and appreciated their imagination, always patient with their limitations and reassuring them how special they where. She worked so hard to stay fit even into her 90's. She did not complain and said positive things. We shared the process of our macular degeneration and supported each other. I am sorry she left so quickly. She will remain an encouragement...
Stephanie McConnell
May 20, 2021 | Friend
Farewell my Sarasota neighbor. I will miss your humor and your wisdom. You were always so full of energy and positivity. I have learned the true value of life from you. Rest in peace. Til we meet again.
Lorraine
May 10, 2021 | Sarasota, FL | Friend
Our sincere sympathies to all who love and miss Irene. We have fond memories of our times together, holidays & birthdays.
Rest In Peace, dear lady.
Val & Paul Fudge
May 10, 2021 | Allen Park, MI | Friend
I am truly saddened by Irene's passing and will miss
her companionship, her humor and her kindness.
I remember fondly the trip we took together many years
ago to Austria.
Rest in Peace my Friend
Beatrice Schultes
Beatrice Schultes
May 10, 2021 | Sarasota | Friend
I am truly saddened by Irene's passing, she was an exceptional friend, always upbeat and joy to be with.
I fondly remember our trip together to Austria needless to say we were
much younger.
I will always remember your kindness and your humor and will miss you
dearly.
Rest in Peace
Beatrice Schultes
Friend
Beatrice M Schultes
May 10, 2021 | Friend
Irene was an amazing lady, a kind and generous neighbor. I know she is prepared for her reward !
Adrienne J Matcham
May 10, 2021 | Neighbor
I will forever miss you Dear Irene.. My Friend
Gigi @ Millie’s Restaurant
Sarasota Fl
May 10, 2021