Irma McNulty

Irma McNulty (née Carpani), 93, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her home on December 4, 2025. Born in Hamilton, Ontario to Antonio and Maria Carpani, Irma was raised in a traditional Italian home that instilled in her a lifelong devotion to family.
Irma was a cherished sister, mother, auntie, grandmother, and great-grandmother, lovingly known as Nonna. Irma is survived by her younger sister, Ines; her children Mary Catharine, Patti (Greg), and Jamie; and her grandchildren Kaitlin (Aaron), Grace (Trevor), Dalton (Danielle), Matt (Jocelyn), Lily, Gordon (Cas), and Elsie. She was also blessed with her great-grandchildren Ella, Lucan, Ada, Penelope, and Isla, and looked forward to meeting Walter, expected in March of 2026.
Irma was baptized in the Catholic church and embraced the teachings of Jesus. She continued and expanded her spiritual journey throughout her life, studying the works of philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius, Mahatma Gandhi, and the Dalai Lama. Irma embodied a philosophy of love and acceptance, and radiated a limitless generosity of spirit. Irma enjoyed thirty-eight years of marriage with her husband, Gordon Arthur McNulty, who passed away in 1992. Together they enjoyed dancing, golfing, playing bridge, and many cruises, as well as raising their three children. Summer vacations to the family cottage at Sauble Beach on Lake Huron were an anticipated highlight when gathering with her extended family. The continued tradition of spirited games of euchre was loved and enjoyed by all.
Irma was a fantastic cook. She learned traditional cooking and baking from her parents, and in later years she travelled to Italy to expand her expertise. For 10 years she worked with some of her closest friends in the kitchen of St. Monica's Elementary School as head cook. Family and friends enjoyed Irma's amazing and delicious meals, almost as much as she loved cooking them. Irma's favorite times in her kitchen were when she was cooking with her family, especially her grand and great-grandchildren. Irma shared her knowledge and skills with everyone by planning and teaching cooking classes that were thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.
Irma was skilled in sewing, knitting, drawing and painting. She donated countless knitted scarves, hats and other items to St Vincent, Ministry With Community, and other local organizations helping those in need. Her family treasured the hand drawn cards she lovingly created for birthdays and special occasions. Irma was a lover of music from opera and classical to big band jazz to pop and Americana. Ever curious and adventurous, Irma became a certified scuba diver at the age of 60. She devoted time to various volunteer efforts throughout her life, including planning and cooking meals at the Kalamazoo Soup Kitchen and Kairos Dwelling. At home, she cherished the company of her beloved cat, Cider, a faithful companion in her later years.
Irma was preceded in death by her sisters Paula and Rose. She will be remembered for the deep love with which she embraced her family, and her positive outlook on life. Irma found the good in everyone and loved unconditionally. Her legacy lives on in the generations she guided, supported, and cherished, and in the many lives she touched with her generosity and grace.
A celebration of Irma's life will be held on January 17 from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at Martini's Restaurant, 832 South Westnedge Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI. Family and friends are warmly invited to join together in remembering Irma, and sharing their favorite stories and memories.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kairos Dwelling.