Irene Pappas, 95

Irene Florence Pappas, age 95, of Marshall, and former longtime resident of Sturgis, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at Marshall Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in Marshall.

She was born on January 11, 1930 in Sturgis, the daughter of the late Pete and Emily (Eyster) Pappas. Irene spent most of her life in Sturgis and graduated with the Sturgis High School Class of 1948.

Throughout her working years, Irene held several roles in the community. She began as a telephone operator with the local telephone company in Sturgis, then worked for the Transogram Company and M&R (now known as Abbott Nutrition). Later, she followed her passion for antiques and became a self-employed antique dealer.

Irene found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved gardening, playing Bingo, making jewelry, and listening to country music. Most of all, she treasured time spent with her grandchildren and took great pride in attending their sporting events and milestones.

She is survived by her daughters, Vicky (Six) Strang and Linda her husband Jerry (Six) Wallace, both of Sturgis, and Brenda (Hostetler) Fraley of Marshall. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Kelli Strang of Sturgis, Joe Wallace of Sturgis, Bob (Nancy) Wallace of Gilbert, Arizona, Tom (Tracy) Wallace of Howe, Indiana, PJ Fraley of Louisville, Kentucky, Amanda Fraley of Marshall, and Emily (Ken) Fraley of Marshall. She leaves behind 14 great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Francis Ryan, Mary Anna Johnson, Mary Summey, Georgia Kreider, and her twin sister Helene Buman; brothers: Gus Pappas, Nick Pappas and Jim Pappas; her grandson Lewie Strang; sons-in-law Steve Strang and Paul Fraley; and great-grandchildren Killie Sue Fraley and Jared Tinsley.

In accordance with Irene’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private memorial graveside service and interment of ashes will be held at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Sturgis. Rev. Doug Noonkester of the First Baptist Church of Sturgis will officiate.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis.

Memorial donations in Irene’s memory may be directed to:

• Harmony Hospice

2725 Airview Blvd., Suite 101

Portage, MI 49002

• Marshall Nursing and Rehabilitation

575 N. Madison Street

Marshall, MI 49068

Relatives and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.