John Ireland

John F. Ireland, Dunkirk, passed away with his family by his side Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital after suffering a fall. He was 92 years old.

Born in Pennville, Indiana, to Harold F. “Pat” and Thelma (Trey) Ireland, he was raised on the family farm by his grandparents, John F. and Livina Ireland. He was a 1947 graduate of Dunkirk High School, returning to school to receive his diploma after his service to the U.S. Army during World War ll.

He married his high school sweetheart, Mary Alice (Farmer) lreland in June 1948. He lost her to cancer in July of this year after 70 years of marriage.

John proudly served his country in the 63rd Infantry Division of the Army in Germany and Central Europe. He was awarded two Bronze Stars, among other medals, but was most proud of his Infantry Badge.

He worked at Marhoefer Packing Company in the body shop until its closure and retired from Delco Remy, Anderson, in the skilled trades.

He was a 50-plus-year member of the Masonic Lodge, serving as a Past Master, and also a member of the Dunkirk American Legion.

John is survived by two daughters, Carol (Dan) Whitesell and Susan Adams; grandchildren Kirsten (Brenda) Ireland, John Whitesell, Laura (Linus) Roessner, Jarrod (Meredith) Whitesell and Sarah Coleman; great-granddaughters Camille Tweedy and Lillian Whitesell; half-sister Minnie Depweg; and his beagle Gus.

He was predeceased by his wife Mary, grandparents, parents, a half-sister, two half-brothers and an infant grandson.

Per John’s request, services were held privately for the family at Wilson-Shook Funeral Home Dunkirk Memorial Chapel with graveside services in the Dunkirk I.O.O.F. Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue Fund, 1209 W. Riggin Road, Muncie, IN 47302.