On March 8, 2025, Irene Elizabeth Hemerling (née Dansdill) peacefully joined her parents R.P. and Henrietta Dansdill, husband Tom Hemerling, sister Rita, and the Lord. Born in Burlington, on Dec. 4, 1945, to Richard and Henrietta Dansdill.
Irene is survived by one daughter - Lynn Hemerling and she was the eldest of ten children with siblings: Mary, Regina, Margaret, Rita, Richard, David, Regis, Janey, and Jim.
As the firstborn, Irene set an example for her siblings in countless ways. She was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt, long-time member of St. Patrick’s and later St. Mary’s Church, a CCD teacher, brownie troop leader, and an active volunteer within her community. She loved working at F&M Bank with her various co-workers and supporting the community of Burlington, IA. Irene's commitment to her roles earned her the respect and admiration of many.
She was a beloved aunt to Chantelle and Bruce Diewold and subsequently to their children Chloe and Chason. They became an integral part of their lives as a proxy parent and mentor. For her own siblings, Irene was not only a cherished sister but also the cornerstone of the family. She visited her parents daily on her way to work, bridging gaps and keeping everyone connected. Irene's home was a haven for family and friends alike, who often stopped by for snacks after school.
Irene and her sister Mary shared many journeys together, traveling to family events and engaging in endless conversations about their loved ones. A memorable highlight was their 2½-week road trip visiting family across several states. Irene's home was always open to visiting relatives, where they caught up on each other's lives.
Irene and husband Tom Hemerling, initiated the tradition of family reunions. Starting with Christmas gatherings in 1967, these events featured joyful caroling around the piano. As the family grew, the reunions became biennial summer events, complete with bocci ball tournaments, volleyball games, water activities for kids, catered food, and karaoke. Irene's love for these gatherings was evident, and they continue to thrive to this day.
Irene was a happy, caring, generous, and loving individual who will be deeply missed by all that knew her. She is now in a better place. Rest in peace.
The Mass of Christian Burial for Irene will be 10 a.m. Saturday, March 15 at SS Mary & Patrick Catholic Church of Divine Mercy Parish in West Burlington. Burial will follow at 3 p.m. at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
The rosary will be recited at 5 p.m. Friday, March 14 at Lunning Chapel. Visitation will follow with the family to receive friends until 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers please send memorials to piercedhearts.org. Their mailing address is: SCTJM, C/O Sr Rachel Gosda, 3098 S.W. 14th St, Miami, FL 33145.