Irene Dykstra

Irene Dykstra of Grand Rapids Michigan, formerly of Ada, graced to this earth with her beauty, humor, unconditional love and strength of character for 100 years seven months and 24 days. Born to Thomas and Goldie Thwaites on June 8, 1919 she remained in the area all of her life, departing on February 24, 2020.  Retiring from Old Kent bank in 1982.  She relished her retirement, adorning the love of her life home in Ada from estate sales, antique auctions and haunting local flea markets. Irene had a gift for creating beauty and comfort wherever she was and loved doing it.  Irene was a patriot and a member of the DAR (Daughter of the American Revolution) in good standing since 1982.  She is preceded in death by her parents Tom and Goldie Thwaites, her brother Jack Thwaites, her first husband Theodore Thomas, (Teen Thomas) 2 new born baby boys Tom and John Thomas and her second husband William (Bill Dykstra).  She leaves behind to remember her with peace and gratitude, daughter Judith (Judy) Menichino.   Grandchildren Andy and Jackie Menichino, Frank, Mark (Cindi Hubrecht) and Chris Kaupa. Great Grand Children: Tony, Joey and Alyssa Menichino, Jaison Kaupa, Steve and Brooke Kaupa, Lisa and Michelle Rodgers,Charlotte, Evan and Grayson, Laura Lee and Kyle Osborne, Holly and Logan Predy, Brooke and Craig McMahon. Great grandchildren: Riley, Naomi, Harper and Aspyn Kaupa, Jaison Kaupa, Jake Kaupa, Rileigh Runkel. Sister-in-law Phylliss Thwaites, nephews Jim and Bonnie Thwaites, Bannon and Ashley Backhus. Niece Jane and Mick Nelson. A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 7 at 1 PM at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service at 4291 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

Please remember animals when you think of Irene. She loved them all very much.

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