Obituary: Stella R. Irwin

Our beloved mother, Stella R. Irwin, 88, passed away peacefully early July 29, 2016, at Ministry Door County Medical Center.  She was born on November 23, 1927, in Little Rock, AR to Shoffner and Rosa May (Moore) Wright.  At the age of 5, Stella’s mother died and she was raised by her aunts near mid-eastern Arkansas.  Through high school, she worked at a neighborhood drug store when she met a dashing Army Air Corps pilot from Spooner, WI.  On January 12, 1946, they married in Kenilworth, IL.

In the summer of 1946, Barney and Stella were transferred to Stuttgart, Germany where as a cargo pilot, he flew hundreds of missions around Europe and North Africa. After the Berlin Airlift ended they were transferred to George Air Force Base in Victorville, CA near Los Angeles.  Not long after, they celebrated the first of three children at about the same time the Korean War was winding down.  Yet another service transfer landed Stella and Barney at Scott Air Force Base where they resided in Wilmette, IL for almost 10 years.

Upon retirement from the US Air Force, they moved their three children north to Sturgeon Bay, WI.  As Barney managed the Door County Chamber of Commerce, Stella found time to volunteer at Door County Memorial Hospital while raising 3 children and 3 pets.  After retiring from what is known as the visitor’s bureau, they divided their time between winters in Southern Cal and summers in Sturgeon Bay.

Survivors include three children, Nancy Irwin, Boulder, CO; Charles Irwin, Sturgeon Bay; Lisa (Roger) Hanson, Green Bay; and one grandson, Chris Irwin, Sturgeon Bay.  Preceded in death by her Husband of 50 years and her brother Robert (Bob Wright) of Racine, Wis. Stella’s “Southern Belle” charm was infectious smile was recognized by many locals because of her love of Door County. Sadly, many will miss her sparkling eyes, impeccable style, and virtually unconditional love.

Memorial services were held  Thursday, August 4, 2016, at the Forbes Funeral Home with Rev. Timothy Malek officiating.  Burial will be at Bayside Cemetery.  Thursday until the time of services at the funeral home.