Irene Marie Stankiewicz

Irene Marie (Fortuna) Stankiewicz, age 96, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on May 16, 2026.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Joseph Fortuna and Mary (Korwak) Fortuna, Irene lived a life centered on faith, family, kindness, and service to others. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband, Peter R. Stankiewicz, with whom she shared 38 devoted years of marriage.

Irene is survived by her loving children: Susie (John) Barker of Portage, MI, Peter (Mary Jane) Stankiewicz of Indianapolis, IN, David (Shelly) Stankiewicz of Coloma, MI, Tim Stankiewicz of Watervliet, MI, and Carie Jo (Dave) Gore of Stevensville, MI. She also leaves behind 11 cherished grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, Irene was preceded in death by her sisters, Florence Mack and Josie Kozeniowska.

Irene found joy in spending time with her family, as well as gardening, baking, canning, singing, volunteering, and most importantly, her faith. Her warm heart, generous spirit, and dedication to helping others touched everyone who knew her.

A memorial service will be held on June 1, 2026, at Palmer Funeral Home - Hoven Chapel. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., with the memorial service beginning at 10:30 a.m. There will be a memorial luncheon to follow at the Buchanan Legion Post #51.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the North Berrien Senior Center of Coloma, MI.

Irene and her family would like to thank the staff at Corewell Hospital in St. Joseph and Norma’s Haven in Benton Harbor for their exceptional care and dedication. If you would like to leave online condolences for Irene and her family, please visit www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.