Irene Pomerleau

Irene Margaret Pomerlau, age 97, of Canton, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, December 12, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by family. She was born on June 29, 1928, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, to the late Charles and Mary Cherkun.

Irene, lovingly known as Mom, Gram, GG, and Ms. Irene, took great pride in being a coal miner’s daughter, the last of twelve siblings, and the heart of a family that cherished her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering kindness. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and enjoyed exercising, golf, bowling, and playing cards with friends and family. Her favorite pastime was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Irene’s life was marked by resilience and generosity. She endured profound losses, including her beloved husband, Bobby, and her daughter, Pauline, yet she faced every challenge with faith and grace. Irene’s strength was matched only by her capacity to love. She was the embodiment of compassion and understanding—she listened with intention, remembered every story, and made everyone feel seen and valued.

Irene was the proud mother of Bernadette (Bunny), with whom she shared an exceptionally special bond that inspired all who witnessed it. She was a devoted mother-in-law and was preceded in death by Denny. Her love extended to her granddaughter Bernadette (Missy), whose adventures in Alaska kept Gram smiling and young at heart, and to Derek, whom she lovingly referred to as her “DJ.” She shared a special bond with her youngest sister, Martha, and her niece Barbara, whom she thought of as a daughter.

Irene’s family grew to include another granddaughter, Renee, and three great-grandchildren—Luke, Simon, and Julia—each of whom she cherished deeply. Gram never missed sending them a birthday card, always signed, “Love you, Gram.”

She found joy in simple acts: making her famous ricotta cookies, helping find mismatched socks, and stocking up on ice cream for her great-grandkids. Her faith was a guiding light, and she truly believed that prayers could fix anything.

Irene’s legacy is one of love. She touched countless lives with her kindness, her listening ear, and her unwavering support. She leaves behind family and friends who are forever grateful for her presence and for the gift of her love.

Rest easy, Irene. Your love will live on in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, Michigan, on Saturday, December 20, 2025. Visitation will take place from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with a funeral service beginning at 10:00 AM. Visitation will resume following the service and continue until 12:00 PM.

If you would like to make a donation in Irene's memory, it may be made to a charity of your choice or Angela Hospice. Contribution envelopes will be available at the funeral home.