Irene Margaret Kusbel

Irene Margaret Kusbel, 84, of Schererville, IN, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Irene was a firecracker, born on July 4, 1940, in Whiting, IN, to Margaret and John Kobe. She grew up in Whiting alongside her siblings, Carol (Joe) Soltis, Jim (Sharon) Kobe, and John (late Cathy) Kobe. One of Irene's favorite pastimes growing up was visiting and unwinding at Whiting Lakefront, a special place where she first met the love of her life, Frank Kusbel, with whom she shared 62 wonderful years. Irene and Frank eventually settled in Hammond, IN. It was in this home where they began to build their life together and started their family, joyfully welcoming their two children, Frank (Lisa) Kusbel and Lynda (Gary) Kujawa. 
Alongside their primary home in Hammond, Irene and Frank were fortunate to acquire a beloved property in Michigan on Donnell Lake. This lake house became the backdrop for countless cherished memories, where laughter and joy echoed through the years. Irene especially enjoyed hosting guests at the lake house, and their legendary annual fish fries became a highlight for all who attended.
As their family grew, Irene’s love and care extended to her grandchildren: Matthew (Greer), Lauren (Jacob), Kyle, Rachel, and Jacob. She took great joy in being an active part of their lives, offering guidance, support, and most of all, unconditional love.
Beyond her role as a devoted Wife, Mother and Grandmother, Irene was a wonderful friend and neighbor. She formed lifelong bonds with those around her and cherished every friendship.

Irene loved playing cards with her friends, beating her grandchildren in dice games and Yahtzee, completing puzzles, and rooting for her favorite teams, the Fighting Irish, the Indiana Hoosiers (and the Purdue Boilermakers for one of her granddaughters), and the Chicago Cubs. Her love for music, particularly Elvis and Neil Diamond, filled her home with warmth. Irene was also a dedicated member of the St. James the Less Catholic Church. 
Irene will forever be remembered for her infinite generosity, kind spirit, and everlasting devotion to her family, friends, and community. Irene’s love and compassion touched everyone she knew.
She leaves behind a legacy of kindness that will never be forgotten, Goodnight Irene.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 14th, 2025 from 4:00 - 8:00 PM at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center 8941 Kleinman Road (on block south of Ridge Rd) Highland, IN. 
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 15th, 2025 at 10:30 with Rev. Gregory Bim-Merle officiating at St. James the Less Catholic Church 9640 Kennedy Ave, Highland, IN.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Down Syndrome Association (DSA), an organization held dear to Irene. DSANWI.ORG

For further information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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