Colleen Fay Irwin

In Loving Memory of Colleen Fay Irwin

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To honor her beautiful spirit, remember to laugh often, play a harmless prank, hug your loved ones tightly, and always choose the adventure.

Our beloved mother, Colleen Fay Irwin, passed away on September 1, 2026, surrounded by her family at the age of 63. She lived a life defined by determination, love, laughter, and an endless capacity to care for others.

Colleen was born to Richard and Colleen Kane in Stanley, Wisconsin, on August 28, 1963. She grew up in Sheldon, Wisconsin. On July 7, 1980, she married her soulmate and the love of her life, Rick Irwin. Together they welcomed their daughter, Deborah (Mandy), in 1981, and their son, Ricky Jr., in 1986.

Mom was a practical joker who believed life should be an adventure. She retired early to care for our father, and together they enjoyed camping, fishing, and gardening. She especially loved spending time with her sisters, Kathy and Sandy, and her Aunt Arlys. The three of them would regularly visit Arlys to spend time together and go shopping. Whether they were out on the town or simply enjoying each other's company, there was always plenty of laughter, fun, and unforgettable adventures. Colleen also lovingly cared for Sandy until her final days. Caring for others was simply who she was.

She was a beloved auntie to all her nieces and nephews and was affectionately known as “Auntie Poopy.” She brought endless love, laughter, and joy into their lives, leaving behind cherished memories that will remain in their hearts forever.

But nothing compared to the joy she found in being a grandmother. Colin, Chloe, Grace, and Luke were the highlights of her life. She camped with them, rode roller coasters and zip lines, danced and sang, and joined them in countless adventures and pranks. She was their biggest cheerleader and the perfect Namy.

To her children, she was the one who could always dust us off, make us laugh, and remind us everything would be okay. Mom leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. We will miss her more than words can say, but we will carry her love with us always.

She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Rick Irwin; her children, Deborah (Mark) Engfer and Ricky (Courtney) Irwin Jr.; her beloved grandchildren, Colin, Chloe, Grace, and Luke; her siblings, James (Ruth) Kane Sr., Kathleen (Gary) Mueller, and Marshal Kane; her sisters-in-law, Deborah (Dennis) Gribauskas and Maureen Robinson; and her brother-in-law, Earl Irwin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard H. Kane Sr. and Colleen (Mulnix) Kane; her infant brother, Tommy Kane; her sister, Sandy (Kane) Irwin; her sister-in-law, Chris Kane; her father-in-law, Robert Irwin; and her brothers-in-law, Bobby Irwin and Brian Irwin.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026 at the Sheldon Church of Christ, W5570 Pierce Street, Sheldon, Wisconsin with visitation from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM and service beginning at 1:00 PM with Jeremy Allard officiating (with a luncheon to follow directly after).

To honor her beautiful spirit, remember to laugh often, play a harmless prank, hug your loved ones tightly, and always choose the adventure.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.