- Date Of Birth: April 12, 1960
- Date Of Death: July 25, 2016
- State: Indiana
Eileen Kelson, devoted mother, daughter, wife, business professional and community volunteer, passed away peacefully Monday, July 25, after a lengthy battle with ovarian cancer.
Eileen was born April 12, 1960. She was the daughter of Arthur and Adrienne Danko and grew up in their Dolton, Ill., home. She attended Thornridge High School and graduated from Bauder College, Arlington, Texas, with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing.
Known for her grace, charm, style, selfless spirit, and enthusiasm for life’s challenges, Eileen was a loyal friend and bright light in the lives of all those who knew her.
In 1982 Eileen married Joel Irish, and was instrumental in operating a successful van and truck conversion accessory business with him in Arlington, Texas. In 1993 Eileen moved to Elkhart where she took a leadership role in a wide range of charitable and social causes, including ‘Go Red for Women,’ ‘Just One’ Charity, and the American Cancer Society.
On a professional level, Eileen served in sales, marketing, and promotional positions within the real estate and health care industries in the Elkhart/South Bend area, serving at the Elkhart Clinic, Unity Hospital, Heart City Health Center, and other institutions.
Always able to combine her charitable, social, and professional interests to benefit the community, Eileen was honored as one of ‘Michiana’s Outstanding Women’ by Sassy Magazine in 2012.
In 2004, Eileen married Carlisle (Chuck) Kelson, a financial and investment professional, and she often hosted friends, family, and her cherished granddaughter. An accomplished cook, Eileen often used her talents in the kitchen to express her friendship for others, with everything from a plate of fresh-baked brownies, to a gourmet dinner party.
Surviving relatives include her father Arthur, of Willowbrook, Ill., son Paul Irish of Manhattan, Ill., daughter Alexandra Irish of Elkhart; and 9-year-old granddaughter, Savannah Rose Irish.
