Obituary of Patricia Marie Irwin

Patricia Marie (Heckathorn) Irwin, 76, born in South Bend, Indiana on January 8, 1941, died peacefully at home with her family surrounding her on Sunday, January 29, 2017. Patricia dearly loved her family and friends and made great sacrifices for them; standing up for what she believed was right and just. Even with her most valiant efforts in fighting sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, she slipped away far too quickly from us. She was a born again Christian and is now home with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She is survived by her husband Donald Irwin of Niles, Michigan and daughters Wanda Irwin of Fairbanks, Alaska and Charlotte Schroeder (Steven) of Rowlett, Texas, nephews Chad and Jason Heckathorn of Niles, Michigan and her honorary sister, Gail Heckathorn of Walkertown, Indiana. Patricia was the love of Donald's life and she supported him traveling with him while he sang with the Michiana Metro LightHouse Chorus. She was preceded in death by her brother, Stephen Heckathorn, and parents Millicent and Albert Heckathorn of Niles, Michigan. Funeral services and entombment will be held on Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at Washtenaw Memorial Mausoleum in Ann Arbor at 2:00 p.m. The family wishes to give special thanks for the love and support provided by Dr. Rafat Ansari and his wonderful team of care-givers, especially Brandee. Memorial contributions may be made to Kalamazoo Gospel Mission. Memories may be shared for her family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.