Irene L. Rabe, age 84, of Shelby, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2019 at home.  She was born May 22, 1935 in Montague, the daughter of George and Louise (Ramthun) Friday.

Irene moved to Benona Township upon her marriage to Harold Rabe on September 15, 1956.   Before getting married she was employed at Anaconda.  After marriage she worked at Dupont before taking up full-time homemaking and helping on the family farm.  Later in life Irene served as treasurer for Benona Township.

She was a member of New Era Reformed Church.  She enjoyed square dancing with Harold in the Melody Mates for over twenty years.  Irene loved get-togethers with family and friends, playing cards, and taking care of her flowers and garden.  She also enjoyed watching hummingbirds at her home.

She is survived by her husband, Harold; her children, David (Sharon) Rabe, Diane Rabe, Raymond (Cheryl) Rabe, Sharon (John) Rapes and Chris (Jessica) Rabe; her grandchildren, Carl Rabe and fiancé, Sarah Green, John (Melanie) Rabe, Jessica (Jeremy) Gendron, Michael Rabe (and Jessica Mae Smith), Mary Rabe (and Justin Ross), Crystal (Jeff) Wilkinson, Kerri Rapes, John "Brian" Rapes, Kristy Rapes, Ryan Rabe and Brandon Rabe; and twelve great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, three infant brothers, and her sister, Beverly Matejovsky.

Visitation is Sunday, June 2nd, 4-7 pm at Harris Funeral Home and Monday, June 3rd, beginning at 10 am at New Era Reformed Church with the funeral to follow at 11 am also at the church.  Please consider Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, MI  49420 or New Era Reformed Church, P.O. Box 5, New Era, MI  49446 as a memorial.