Irene Elizabeth Simonsen

Irene Elizabeth Simonsen, beloved wife and step-mother, passed away at the age of 57 on October 21, 2023. Born on October 26, 1965, in Brooklyn, New York, to loving parents Stanley and Irene Sulewski, Irene's strength and courage was an inspiration to everyone who knew her. In her early years, Irene's family relocated to Michigan, where she blossomed into the remarkable woman she became. Irene graduated from Avondale High School in Auburn Hills, Michigan, laying the foundation for a successful future. She went on to have a long and successful career in the insurance industry, where she developed many lifelong relationships. In the 1990’s, a chance encounter at a local band's performance led her to the love of her life and future husband, Michael Simonsen. In 1996, they exchanged vows, and sealed a union that would bring immeasurable joy and love into their lives. Irene embraced her new role as a mother figure to her step-son, Jan, and fostered a loving and nurturing relationship with him, his wife Nicole, and their children, Anthony and Alyssa.

Throughout her life, Irene found solace and happiness in her hobbies and passions. She possessed a green thumb and took immense pleasure in gardening, tending to her vibrant flowers, especially sunflowers. Irene's creativity extended to woodworking, and she crafted many practical and beautiful items for the home she shared with Mike. She savored mystery novels and delighted in unraveling their complex plots. Irene also enjoyed dinner and a movie, usually a bad one, with the ladies in her family. Of course, her unconditional love for her many feline companions added incomparable warmth and joy to all the days of her life. Irene's strength allowed her to see the humor in any situation, and she often used laughter and wry witticism to overcome challenging circumstances and lift the spirits of those around her. Her 27-year dedicated service as a Bond Account Manager at Travelers Insurance demonstrated her professionalism and work ethic. Irene was admired and respected (and maybe a little feared) by her colleagues, and she left an indelible mark on the workplace she called home. Irene courageously battled breast cancer for 19 long years, consistently demonstrating her fierce strength and determination. She faced each obstacle with grace and resilience, inspiring others with her unwavering optimism and humor. Irene inspired not only her family and friends, but also empowered and supported others who faced similar challenges. Her kindness and compassion drew others to her, and created a legacy of memories that will endure beyond her life on earth. Irene Elizabeth Simonsen, a beacon of light in our lives, your presence will forever be missed, but your spirit will live on in our hearts.

Loving step-mother of Jan (Nicole) Simonsen, and step-grandmother to Anthony and Alyssa; loving sister of Christine Sulewski; cherished aunt of Stas (Abby) Sulewski, and Megan Sulewski; dear great-aunt of Auden Sulewski, and Elliott Sulewski; loved daughter-in-law of Cecilia Simonsen; best friend of Theresa (Larry) Frushour. Irene is also survived by many loving cousins and friends who will miss her companionship.

Irene is preceded in passing by her beloved husband Michael Simonsen, and brother Stanley Joseph Sulewski.

Visitation to take place on Sunday, October 29 from 2:00 PM – 8-:00 PM, with a funeral service at 7:00 PM.

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