Irene W. Lawes

Irene W. Lawes, 94, passed away peacefully in Gaylord, Michigan on August 14, 2025, at McReynolds Hall. Born on April 8, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, Irene's life was a testament to resilience, love, and the strength of family.

In 1949, Irene graduated from Gaylord High School. In 1951, Irene married the love of her life, Robert, in Norfolk, Virginia. Their bond was one of unwavering support, laughter, and love that would carry them through the years. Together, they made a home, welcoming nine children into the world-a proud accomplishment that defined her life. In 1957, the family moved to Rogers City, Michigan, where Irene embraced the joys and challenges of motherhood with grace and determination.

A proud and kind soul, Irene possessed a beautiful inner strength that shone brightly in everything she did. She dedicated 25 years of her life working as a bookkeeper at Sears and spent another 10 years at the front desk of Days Inn, where her kindness and warmth left a lasting impression on both coworkers and guests alike.

In 1981, Irene faced the profound loss of her beloved husband, Robert. Despite the challenges of becoming a widow, her spirit remained unbreakable. In 1998, she returned to Gaylord, Michigan, where she continued to nurture her family and embrace the joys of life.

Family was always at the heart of Irene's being. She loved her children deeply, but when her grandchildren arrived, they were the icing on the cake. She found immeasurable joy in their laughter and smiles, cherishing each moment spent together during family gatherings where they would sit back, share stories, and create memories that would last a lifetime.

Irene had a beautiful bond with her dogs, who brought her comfort and companionship throughout her life. Her home was a sanctuary filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of family. Irene's stubbornness and pride were a reflection of her deep love for those she held dear, as she would put her family above all else, giving anything for their happiness and well-being.

Irene's legacy will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will forever carry the lessons of love, strength, and unity she instilled in them.

She is survived by her children, Janie (John) Stoner, Robert "Mike" Lawes, Suzanne (Joe) Bur, Brenda (Doug) Snapp and Timothy (Tonia) Lawes; 19 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Joanie Sherman and her niece, Jennifer Sherman-Wisniewski.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Winifred (Piggins) Balteau; her husband, Robert Byron Lawes; and her four sons, James, William, Steven and John.

A memorial service will take place 11:00 AM Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service, where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on her guestbook below.