Obituary for Inez Irene Fishell

Inez “Irene” (Bolenbaugh) Fishell, 90, died on October 28, 2018, at Caretel Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan. Born and raised in Allegan, Michigan, she married Martin Fishell in 1947. Soon thereafter, the Fishells moved to Berrien Springs, where Martin established a CPA practice. For a time, Irene taught at Lake Chapin School. Eventually, two sons, David and Randy, completed the family circle. Martin preceded Irene in death in 2015.

As a homemaker, Irene demonstrated exceptional hospitality, with a special devotion to Andrews University students. The Fishell home became a hub of Saturday night social activity, and through the years many students found housing in the upstairs and downstairs rooms of the Fishell’s restored farmhouse. Her caring attitude and demonstrable kindness resulted in Irene becoming known as “Mom Fishell” to many individuals throughout the years.

Irene enjoyed traveling the world with Martin, who at one point provided auditing services for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Lasting friendships were formed around the globe. Irene was especially fond of Africa and Peru. One memorable journey found her witness to a bombing incident in Beirut, Lebanon.

An avid gardener, each year Irene enjoyed canning and freezing the bounty from the massive family garden. She was also a renowned cook, an immaculate housekeeper and an accomplished seamstress. Irene was a longtime member of Pioneer Memorial Church.

She is survived by sons, Randy (Diana) Fishell and David (Karen) Fishell; grandchildren: Alison, Tyler, Andrew, Ethan and Ashleigh (Nate) Krehbiel; and great-grandson, Carson Krehbiel.

Services will be held at Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs on Friday, Nov. 2, 2018, at 11 a.m., with visitation taking place one hour prior. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery in Berrien Springs. Online memories and messages may be shared at allredfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift may be made to the Worthy Student Scholarship Fund, Andrews University Office of Development, Andrews University, 8903 US Highway 31, Berrien Springs, Michigan 49104-0660.