Irene B. Dettmers, a cherished member of the Northbrook community and a dedicated family matriarch, passed away on January 6, 2026, at the age of 88. After a courageous nine-and-a-half-year battle with lung cancer, her family and friends remember her as a resilient spirit whose love and warmth touched many lives.
Born to the late Vern and Ray Bennigsen, Irene grew up in Winnetka, Illinois. She later moved to Northbrook, where she became an integral part of the community. Irene was married to the late Leonard Dettmers, and her family legacy includes her late son, Robert Cronin, and siblings, Dorothy Pryor and John Bennigsen.
Irene is survived by her children, Jerry Cronin and his wife Staci, and Beth Glass and her husband Chris. She also leaves behind a loving brood of grandchildren: Connor and Natalie Cronin, Chris and Holly Cronin, and Brad and Blake Glass. In addition, her stepchildren, Leigh Klobucar, Laurie Dettmers, Jane Bakey, and several others from the Feltes family, were an essential part of her life.
Irene’s connection to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was particularly meaningful, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Her family describes her as a loving and nurturing presence whose legacy will continue through the generations.
Memorial Services and Tributes
Visitation services will be held on February 28, 2026, starting at 09:00 until the Mass at 10:00 at St. Norbert and Our Lady of the Brook Parish, located at 1809 Walters Avenue, Northbrook, IL, 60062. Family and friends are invited to honor Irene’s life and legacy during this time.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of Irene’s preferred charities, the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, at 1140 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60607-2906. Contributions can be made to support vulnerable youth, reflecting Irene’s commitment to helping others throughout her life.
For more information regarding the memorial services, interested parties can visit donnellanfuneral.com or contact the funeral home at 847-675-1990. Irene’s family encourages all who knew her to reflect on her many contributions and the love she shared, ensuring her spirit lives on in their hearts.
