Irene Evelyn Deschampe was born on May 13, 1935 in Grand Portage. She passed away on April 9, 2017 at the North Shore Care Center at the age of 81. Irene was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in June 2015.
Irene loved to play bingo, spending time with her grandchildren, beading, cross stitch, and visiting with people. She will be remembered for her great sense of humor, work ethic, and commitment to her family and community.
Irene had a variety of jobs throughout her lifetime. She recently retired from her position as administrative assistant at Grand Portage Casino in December 2016, which she held for 20 years.
Prior to that she worked as Indian Housing director, at the old Grand Portage Store, Ryden’s Border Store, CAP Office, Cook County courthouse and as Health Services director. She was especially proud of the integral role she played in bringing an ambulance to Grand Portage and serving as a volunteer EMT.
Irene is preceded in death by her husband Norman C. Deschampe, Sr; parents Eva (LeSage) and Leonard Hendrickson; siblings Linda Roell, Vera Fedo, Lloyd Hendrickson, Leroy Hendrickson, Lena LaPlante, Ruth Crawford and two infant sons.
She is survived by her sister Betty (Craig) Bates of Norwalk, California; seven children, Mary Ann Gagnon, Norman (Debbie) Deschampe Jr., Larry “Fish” (Janis) Deschampe, Rosie (Rick) Novitsky, Allan (Diane) Deschampe, Sally Deschampe, and Marlene (Joel) Allard, all of Grand Portage; 14 grandchildren;
31 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
A memorial service was held on Thursday, April 13 at the Old Log School in Grand Portage followed by a luncheon at the Grand Portage Community Center.
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