James Michael Ireton

James Michael Ireton
September 28, 1950 - January 10, 2021

James “Mike” Michael Ireton, age 70 of Ft. Wayne, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 10, 2021, at home surrounded by the love of his family.  Mike is survived by his wife of 48 years, Dianna (Byrne); daughters Emily (Tony) Chu and Sarah (Brian) Goodnough; sons Dan (Kristen) and Sean (Jacqueline); grandchildren Finnegan, Madeline, Jack, Ava, Mason and Connor; sister Portia (Bill) McConnell; brother-in-law F. Joseph Byrne; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by parents, James and Elma Ireton and sisters, Barbara Kay Ireton and Marcia Cramer.

Mike was born and raised in Van Wert, Ohio.  He was a 1968 graduate of Lincolnview High School, where he took his future bride, Dianna, to his senior prom.  On January 6, 1973, Mike and Dianna started a life together and set a true example of unconditional love for their four children.

Mike graduated from the University of Dayton in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.  While on campus, some of his fondest (and wildest) memories were made with his fellow brothers of the Alpha Nu Omega fraternity, who affectionately referred to him as “Dip-i.”  Once a Flyer always a Flyer, Mike was an avid fan of the UD Men’s Basketball team and was rarely seen without wearing his Dayton apparel.

He was a devoted employee with long spanning careers at Federal Mogul, Huffy Bicycles and Franklin Electric before enjoying retirement in 2010.

Mike had a passion for music that grew through every decade of his life, from his extensive record collection, to sharing his musical influence with his kids, and his pure joy in attending live concerts.  From the Beatles to Big Band, Mike appreciated it all.  He also loved jazz music and played alto saxophone for several years with the West Ohio Big Band.  Mike’s most recent instrument of choice was the ukulele and he enjoyed serenading every family member on their birthday.

Mike’s absence will leave a void in many hearts because if you knew him, you loved him.  Whether it was a new food he had just tried, an awesome show or movie he saw, or an album he had heard, Mike relished in the opportunity to share these discoveries with others. Truly the life of the party, this “Animal House” fan could never resist leading “The Gator” dance to the song “Shout” at any wedding reception.

For as much as Mike enjoyed life, nothing brought him more joy than being with his family.  His personal motto-“Life is good”-will continue to live on through those who loved him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am, Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 10700 Aboite Center RD with calling one hour prior. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 13, 2021, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne. Masks are required. Burial will be in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorial contributions may be made to FWCS Foundation B-Instrumental or Marfan Foundation.