Irene Dekker

Irene (Boender) Dekker, age 97, went to be with her Lord and Savior on November 17, 2024.  Since May, she lived in Fort Pierce, FL, where she was cared for and surrounded by her entire family, until she went to heaven.  She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Louis Dekker, to whom she was married for 54 years. Loving mother of LuAnn (Alfred) Vandersteen and Dean (Karyn) Dekker. Cherished grandmother of Kandice Koch, Danae Dekker, and Jacob (Brittany) Dekker. Dear sister of Ronald Boender, late James Boender, late Nelson Boender, and the late Sandra Warner.  She loved her family with all her heart.  She lovingly referred to her grandchildren as her “Triple Sunshine”.

Irene lived a full and happy life.  She was a Senior Sales Director with Mary Kay Cosmetics and drove the famous pink Cadillac.  She had a special way of making people feel seen, known, and loved.   A woman full of wisdom, she was always willing to help and guide others.   Additionally, she had a special way of making people laugh.   She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Visitation with family and friends will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN.   A Celebration of Life service will follow at 3:00 pm.   A private family burial will be held at Oak Ridge Cemetery – Lansing, IL.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to Samaritan’s Purse ( www.samaritanspurse.org ) or Illiana Christian High School ( www.illianachristian.org )

Even in her final days, she never complained.   Instead, she would often repeat these phrases: “That’s wonderful”, “I’m fine” and “The Lord has been so good to me.”

For more information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com