Irene G. Kwantes

Irene (Ike) G. Kwantes of Grand Rapids, MI, peacefully went to her eternal home on March 6, 2024 at the age of 93. Irene was born to the late John and Dora De Boer on March 5, 1931, on London Street in Grand Rapids. In addition to her parents, Irene was preceded in death by her four sisters: Anne Deckard and husband John, Julia Veltman and husband Russ, Clara Housekamp and husband John, Jessica Kuizema; and son-in-law, Chet Sharrow. Irene married Kenneth Kwantes on December 11, 1948. Together they had 75 years of love and adventure. She will be greatly missed by her three children: Kenneth J Kwantes (Mary) of Rolla, MO, Kathleen Sherrow of Sarasota, FL, Michael G. Kwantes (Marcia) of Holland, MI. She enjoyed her 9 grandchildren: Jennifer Kwantes (Paul), Jonathan Kwantes (Wendy), Jason Kwantes, Matthew Kwantes, Daniel Kwantes, Caleb Kwantes, Joanna Kwantes, Lydia Kwantes and Biruk Kwantes and cherished her 4 great grandchildren: Collin Wimmer, Kyle Wimmer, Vivian Kwantes and Nathan Kwantes. Also surviving Irene is her sister, Dorothy Sheler (Dale). Irene enjoyed family gatherings, including playing games, gardening, days on Lake Michigan and Florida beaches, dogs, and birding with husband, Ken. She was a life- long member of East Leonard Christian Reformed Church and helped with Calvinettes and sending cards to shut-ins and those in grief. She worked in merchandising at Herpolshiemer’s and Eastern Floral. She took great pride in keeping family history pictures organized. According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Irene’s life will be held at a later date. Burial will be held at Fairplaines Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice of Holland Home.