Irene R. Hopper

 Irene R. Hopper, 89, passed away peacefully on Saturday November 26, 2022.  She was a loving sister, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother. Irene was born in Gary, Indiana to Clyde and Alice (Sears) Riggens and lived in Merrillville, Indiana and later moved to Aurora, Illinois. Irene had a passion for gardening and bird watching; she spent the bulk of her days in her garden.  In addition, she worked for Bob Evans as a waitress for over 25 years in Merrillville, Indiana where she created long-lasting friendships and worked with several family members. She also loved to crochet and was a remarkable baker. Irene’s main passion was enjoying cherished time and heartfelt conversations with her family and closest friends.  Irene is survived by her two sons; Edward (Cheryl) Hopper of Hebron, Indiana and Dale (Debi) Hopper of Rockledge, Florida, and two daughters; June (Tom) Kowalski of Crown Point, Indiana and Renee (Kevin) Banks of Aurora, Illinois; eleven grandchildren; Tony, Phillip, Heather, Stephen “Brad”, Angela, Sara, Ryan, Amanda, Justin, Matthew, and Aaron; fifteen great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. Irene is preceded in death by her parents Clyde Riggens and Alice Sears; former husband Arthur Hopper; sister Alice Louise; brother Melvin; brother Clyde Jr.; daughter Patricia Hopper; her grandson Craig Hopper and her beloved friend Joseph Rajokovich. Family will be receiving guests Friday December 2, 2022 from 3pm, until time of service at 7pm, at Dieterle Memorial Home 1120 S Broadway in Montgomery, IL.  A private family burial will take place in Hobart, Indiana. For guestbook and information visit www.dieterlememorialhome.com 630-897-1196