Irene Mary Ches, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, was born on July 12, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan, to Tekla (Zaremba) and Frank Wardach. She lived a life rooted in faith, family, kindness, and service to others, leaving a legacy of love that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Irene was the devoted wife of the late Leonard Ches, who preceded her in death in 2014. Together they built a strong and loving family. She was a loving mother to Tom (Anita) Ches, Gail (Miles) Jarvis, Susan Addison, Janice (John) Hughes, and Laurie (the late Edward) Slawinski.
She was a doting and proud grandmother to Catherine (Darrol Procacciante) Ches, Brian Ches, Jeffrey Jarvis, Andrea (Andrew) Hill, Sarah Jarvis, Gerald (Grace Kelch) Jarvis, Kelly (Joe) Capparelli, Tracy (Ted) Brash, Michael (Kristy) Addison, Keith (Lisa) Slawinski, and Kevin (Tiana Colon) Slawinski, and a cherished great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren and many great-great grandchildren.
Irene was preceded in death by her siblings, Florence Balon and Stanley Wardach.
She worked for many years as a keypuncher at the National Bank of Detroit. Outside of work, Irene found her greatest joy in being surrounded by her family. She loved reading, watching her favorite game shows, singing, and playing games—especially her beloved game, Rack-O. Family gatherings, parties, and time spent playing with her grandchildren were among her greatest pleasures.
A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Irene was the cornerstone of her family and a devoted member of the Catholic Church. She was known for her generous heart, always willing to help others, especially in times of need. Her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit touched everyone she met.
Irene was truly well loved and will be lovingly remembered by all whose lives she graced.
A Funeral Mass will be held 10 am January 17, 2026 at St. James Catholic Church 46325 Ten Mile Road Novi , MI 48374 with visitation at 9:30 at the church. Her cremains will be interred alongside her husband at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Capuchins Soup Kitchen www.cskdetroit.org