Sister Irene Mary Gavin, 92, Dec. 11, 1919-Oct. 17, 2012

Obituary courtesy of Williams-Kampp Funeral Home

Sr. Irene (Mary) Gavin, a devoted member of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary for 74 years, passed October 17, 2012, at Resurrection Life Center in Chicago. Sister Irene's passion in ministry was secondary education. Her legacy was one of excellence in teaching.

Whether it was teaching chemistry, history, theology or being the administrator of the school, Sister Irene was clear, concise, innovative, inspiring, life changing and challenging to each student and faculty member. She was blessed with a captivating Irish wit and a love of learning that she graciously passed along to others. Her students will remember her from Mother McAuley, Aquinas, St. Francis in Wheaton, Loretto Sacramento, Loretto Woodlawn, and Loretto High in Sault Ste. Marie, MI.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Susan (Costello) Gavin; her siblings, Joseph (Betty Penny), Rev. Russell, O. Carm, Margaret, Richard and Patrick. She is survived by her loving nieces and nephew Susanne (James) Konrath, Joseph (Carol) Gavin, and Maureen Gavan; her grandnieces/nephew Jennifer (Jeff) Coole, Kathryn (Steven) Jeretina and Joseph (fiancée Kathryn Tumen) Gavin.

Visitation was Friday, Oct. 26.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the IBVM Office of Development at Loretto Convent.