Irene Sebens passed away at her home in Lynden on March 7, 2018. She was born in Van Buren, Missouri, on Oct. 24, 1929 to C.A. and Annie (Maberry) Cowin. Irene moved to Lynden with her family at the age of 6, and she lived in Whatcom County the rest of her life.
Irene married Marion Sebens on Dec. 12, 1946 and they had four children. Irene was a faithful member of Second Christian Reformed Church and was actively involved in Bible studies and Ladies Aid.
Hospitality was her gift and she welcomed everyone into her home with love. No one ever left her place hungry or lonely. Her love for knitting, crocheting and sewing was evident. Every grandchild had blankets and a dress or sweater made by Gram. She enjoyed playing cards with her friends and was always ready to play a game with the grandkids. Irene had a deep faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and her desire was for all her children and grandchildren to know the Lord too. She prayed every day for each one by name.
Irene is survived by her children, Jerry (Cynthia) Sebens, Jan Ruiter, Joan (Jerry) Bush and Doug (Pat) Sebens; 14 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild due in July.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Marion, in 2003; her three brothers; sisters-in-law; granddaughter Laurie Sebens; and son-in-law Gerald Bosman.
Donations will be appreciated to the Whatcom Hospice Foundation, 2901 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham, WA 98225. Special thanks goes to Carren, Peggy and Robyn from Whatcom Hospice and thanks also to caregivers Sue Walls and Alene Parrish.
Viewing for Irene will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, March 16, in Gillies Funeral Home. The graveside service will be in Monumenta Cemetery at 9:45 a.m. Saturday, March 17, followed by her memorial service at 10:30 a.m. in Second Christian Reformed Church of Lynden.
You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
