Eileen Kay Irish, 86, of Hiawatha, died peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at her home. A private family service is being held at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. The burial is being held at the Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.
Eileen was born on April 2, 1939, in Newton, Iowa, the daughter of Emmett and Eva (Nolin) Moen. She graduated from McKinley High School in 1957. Eileen married her high school sweetheart, James M. Irish, on March 30, 1958, in Cedar Rapids. Eileen was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband of 61 years, James; a daughter, Tracie (Pete) Irish Leehey, of Hiawatha; a son, Scott (Jodi) Irish of Anamosa; a daughter, Krista (Chris Scheldrup) Irish of Cedar Rapids; a daughter, Shelbie Irish, of Hiawatha. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, Brittany (Jasen) Dahm; Alex Turner; Steen (Courtney) Irish; Lauren (Ben) Carpenter; Melissa Scheldrup; Macklin Scheldrup; Kenz (Mikel) Wismer; Madison (Hunter) Baldus; Michael Scheldrup; eight great grandchildren and one on the way; and close family friend, Mark West and family, and last but not least, her beloved pets, Snooki, Poppi, Bella and Billie. She was preceded in death by her parents and two siblings, Burt Moen and Evalyn Gouge.
Mom, we want you to know how deeply we love and appreciate you. You’ve been an incredible mother—guiding us with strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. Raising four children was no small task, but you did it with grace, patience, and selflessness. You always made sure we felt supported, seen, and above all, loved. You and Dad taught us to be hardworking and resilient, to never give up no matter what life throws our way. That legacy lives on in your grandchildren, who carry the same values you instilled in us. So much of who we are today is because of you. Your kindness and steady presence continue to inspire us every day. You didn’t just give us a beautiful childhood—you gave us a lifetime of love, memories, and lessons. We hope you know just how special you are to us, not only today but every day. We are endlessly proud to call you our Mom.
Eileen had a deep love for football—especially the Chicago Bears and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. She couldn’t wait for football season to begin. Family and friends knew not to make plans during a Bears or Notre Dame game, and if you called during a game, she would hang up on you! In the warmer months, you’d find her in her yard, tending to her plants and flowers with care. She took pride in her home and found joy in nature’s beauty. But more than anything, Eileen loved her family. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who cherished visits to Nana and Papa’s house. “What happens at Nana’s stays at Nana’s” was the rule, and her grandkids were thoroughly loved—and a little spoiled. She believed you had to earn the right to be a grandparent, and she did just that with heart and devotion. Eileen was kind, selfless, and full of love. She was a treasured soul, deeply loved and cherished by all who knew her. Her legacy of compassion, strength, and generosity will live on in all of us.
Memorial donations may be given to Hospice of Mercy in Eileen’s name.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Mercy; Mercy Hospital; Bradley Beer, M.D.; Amandeep Dahliwal, M.D.; Anwar Ahmed, M.D., and their staff for the wonderful care given to her. The family is forever grateful for your compassion.