We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Irene F. here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
Mrs Growden was my 1st & 2nd grade teacher in the early 60s. She taught me not only how to read but to love to read.
Elisabeth Giegerich
June 9th, 2006 at 12:00am
Irene was my first and second grade teacher along with 2 of my other brothers. Bret and I sent her birthday cards every yr. and she would send us one. I just talked to her right after her last birthday and she said that she was feeling wonderful. I'm so surprise to hear of her death. You all had a great mom. She was loved by everyone. Pam Morgan South Haven, Mi.
Bret and Pamela Morgan
June 9th, 2006 at 12:00am
I was so sorry to hear of Irenes death. I have been doing her hair for the past 10 years or so, and she was one of my very favorite ladies. I had just seen her on Friday June 2 and she was her smiling cheerful self, so to hear this was a total shock. She was a wonderful lady, which I am sure you all know:) She will be very much missed on Fridays at the Clipper Ship.
Aaron Valdes
June 10th, 2006 at 12:00am
Tom,
Rick Davies
June 11th, 2006 at 12:00am
I was fortunate to be a part of Mrs. Growden's life when I was a child in her first grade class in 1970. She was a wonderful role model and instilled in me a love of reading and learning that I have to this day. I live in California now, but we reconnected in 2002 when she sent me a clipping from the South Haven Tribune of my wedding engagement announcement. This is just one example of what a thoughtful and kind person she is. Since that day and over the last 4 years, when I've been home visiting my family in South Haven, I would visit with her when I could. I have wonderful memories of sitting in her house and chatting about whateever popped into our heads, sharing news on each of our lives. I was shocked to hear of her passing since I just saw her over the Christmas holidays and she was so full of life and energy, as usual. I miss her cheerful, smiling face already but I am so glad that in addition to being her student in 1970, we were able to become friends. I hope these words can be of some comfort to Mrs. Growden's family. She is a very special person who I will always remember.
Jim(my) Montgomery
June 11th, 2006 at 12:00am
We lived next to Irene for many years and always felt very blessed to have known her. She was always so sweet and thoughtful. We will dearly miss her.
Paul and Amy Dannenberg
June 12th, 2006 at 12:00am
I work at Village Market and your Mother, Grandmother, Aunt and Sister used to come in quite often. I would like to say that I am sorry for your loss and she will be greatly missed. She was a joy to wait on in the store and many times brigtened my day. Once again, my deepest sympathy to all of your family.
Donna Hopp
June 13th, 2006 at 12:00am
I have not seen Irene in many years
Carol Diebold Kimmel
June 15th, 2006 at 12:00am
I just wanted to say how sorry I was to hear of your mother's passing. She was my 1st grade teacher but over the years when I would visit South Haven no matter her age she always rememberd me and as time went on and I had children she always recalled my children's names. She was truly a gifted teacher hopefully her spirit will pass on to one of the young teachers today and give them the gift. Peace be with you and your family.
Nickie Bierhalter Heyer
August 17th, 2006 at 12:00am
