James
Michael
Ireton
Obituary
James “Mike” Michael Ireton, age 70 of Ft. Wayne, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 10, 2021, at home surrounded by the love of his family. Mike is survived by his wife of 48 years, Dianna (Byrne); daughters Emily (Tony) Chu and Sarah (Brian) Goodnough; sons Dan (Kristen) and Sean (Jacqueline); grandchildren Finnegan, Madeline, Jack, Ava, Mason and Connor; sister Portia (Bill) McConnell; brother-in-law F. Joseph Byrne; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents, James and Elma Ireton and sisters, Barbara Kay Ireton and Marcia Cramer.
Mike was born and raised in Van Wert, Ohio. He was a 1968 graduate of Lincolnview High School, where he took his future bride, Dianna, to his senior prom. On January 6, 1973, Mike and Dianna started a life together and set a true example of unconditional love for their four children.
Mike graduated from the University of Dayton in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. While on campus, some of his fondest (and wildest) memories were made with his fellow brothers of the Alpha Nu Omega fraternity, who affectionately referred to him as “Dip-i.” Once a Flyer always a Flyer, Mike was an avid fan of the UD Men’s Basketball team and was rarely seen without wearing his Dayton apparel.
He was a devoted employee with long spanning careers at Federal Mogul, Huffy Bicycles and Franklin Electric before enjoying retirement in 2010.
Mike had a passion for music that grew through every decade of his life, from his extensive record collection, to sharing his musical influence with his kids, and his pure joy in attending live concerts. From the Beatles to Big Band, Mike appreciated it all. He also loved jazz music and played alto saxophone for several years with the West Ohio Big Band. Mike’s most recent instrument of choice was the ukulele and he enjoyed serenading every family member on their birthday.
Mike’s absence will leave a void in many hearts because if you knew him, you loved him. Whether it was a new food he had just tried, an awesome show or movie he saw, or an album he had heard, Mike relished in the opportunity to share these discoveries with others. Truly the life of the party, this “Animal House” fan could never resist leading “The Gator” dance to the song “Shout” at any wedding reception.
For as much as Mike enjoyed life, nothing brought him more joy than being with his family. His personal motto-“Life is good”-will continue to live on through those who loved him.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am, Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 10700 Aboite Center RD with calling one hour prior. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 13, 2021, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne. Masks are required. Burial will be in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorial contributions may be made to FWCS Foundation B-Instrumental or Marfan Foundation.
Services
Condolences
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Dianna – Was saddened to learn of Mike’s passing away. Have many good memories of working with Mike at Huffy. Condolences to you and your family.
Dianna, Barry and I are grateful for the time that we knew your dear hubby. He certainly did enjoy life and was the life of the party! He had a smile on his face all the time with a bit of fun mischievousness in his eyes. He will be missed on the “Court”! Sorry we didn’t make it to the calling or funeral, I didn’t see it until afterwards. I’ll reach out soon. Karen & Barry
From an Alpha Nu Brother, Rest In Peace my Brother. Deepest condolences to Mike’s family. Know that Mike was loved and appreciated. Hopefully, he will pave the way for the rest of us.
Sarah and Family,
Deepest Sympathy, we are so sorry for your loss. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers. We are here if you need anything. May your memories give you some peace during this difficult time.
Love, The Delrue’s
To Sarah and Family,
We are thinking of you during this difficult time. Know that we are here for you.
Love, Whitney Brennan and Ann Francis
In deepest sympathy for the best uncle ever.
Love Bill & Wanda Cramer
Dear Diana and Family,
Our sincere sympathy for your loved one and our friend and brother. The brothers of Alpha Nu Omega of the University of Dayton grieve with you. He was a special brother to us and brought us great joy and happiness. We affectionately nicknamed him “Dipi the Hipi” and he will forever be in our hearts.
Mike was a wonderfully kind and welcoming man, who never failed to offer a kind word and a smile. He will be missed. From the Celina boys;
Derek Wenning
Paul Loera
Dan Fleck
Kerry Lipp
John Lake
Our hearts and prayers are with all of you!! We have nothing but happy memories of Mike!!❤️
Larry, Eileen, and all of the Kawa Family
With deepest sympathy.
Dave & Gwen
Rob & Kate
Alex & Mandy
Dan & Ashley
“OWWCCCU” for life
The family has my condolences. Mike will be missed by all. He was always the life of the party when we were in school. He had a great sense of humor and was liked by all. I didn’t get to see Mike much but he was at the class reunions and that was the last I saw him was our 50th class reunion. May he Rest In Peace.
Our deepest sympathy to all of you for the loss of this wonderful man. His kindness and joy of music will be carried on down generations of your family and many others, including mine.
Much love, Sarah (Sealscott) Gutchall, Lennon & Chloe
God be with you, Ireton family, during your time of grief. Our prayers are with you. The Stolly family.
Chad Stolly
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Extending our most heartfelt sympathies to you and your family
Love, The Yark’s
Ireton Family – So sorry for your loss. The joy Mike brought to everyone’s lives will not be forgotten.
Sean and Family –
We are keeping you all in our thoughts and know Mike will be greatly missed. Sending our love.
Dan, Kristen, Mason and Connor,
We are so very sorry for your loss! May you find comfort and peace in your memories of your Dad and Grandpa.
Love, Steve, Megan, Addie and Ava Grant
We are very sorry for your loss.
Love, Andrew, Kathi & Abby Vitale