Obituary of Irene Walker

Irene Walker, 93, of Niles, passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon, July 17, 2011 at Silverbrook Manor. She was born on June 28, 1918 to the late William L. and Minnie (Vetter) Bessemer. Irene was married to Arthur Tappan. He preceded her in death many years ago. Some years after Arthur passed Irene married Merle Walker and he also preceded her. She loved collecting china dolls, going to garage sales and auctions, spending time in Shipshewana, reworking furniture and spending time with her family. In addition to Arthur and Merle, Irene was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Sandra Clark, two brothers Frederick and George Bessemer and three sisters; Alice Cochran, Lucille Bessemer and Joyce Jacobs. Irene is survived by a daughter Georgianna Baker of Niles, a son Harold B. (Dee Ann) Ritter of Buchanan, a son-in law James Clark of Niles, nine grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, and a sister Marian Wadel of Niles. In keeping with Irene's wishes, cremation has taken place and she will be laid to rest at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens with no public service. Memorial contributions may be made in Irene's memory to the American Cancer Society.