A Life of Service, Leadership, and Courage
Irene Hosking, born on April 20th, 1918, has lived a life that spans more than a century. Her journey is one of courage, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service.
Irene’s roots lie in Hurley, Wisconsin. She graduated from Hurley High School in 1936, and her passion for nursing led her to the Passavant Hospital School of Nursing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she completed her training in 1940.
The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 changed the course of history, and Irene’s life took an unexpected turn. Her brother, Ken, was a Pearl Harbor survivor, and inspired by his bravery, Irene joined the Army Nurse Corps as a second lieutenant on May 15, 1942.
Irene’s military service took her to Brisbane, Australia, where she learned anesthesiology from Captain Malcolm Hawk. Her role was critical, as she administered anesthesia and spinal procedures independently. Although the war ended in 1945, Irene’s contributions and impact remained indelible.
After leaving Australia in October 1945, Irene settled in Seattle, Washington. She continued her service as a first lieutenant until February 1946. Love blossomed during her military years when she met Al, a fellow service member from Owosso, Michigan. They married and were blessed with a son, Howard, one grandson, and two great-grandchildren.
Irene was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Fenton Chapter #248.
Irene’s commitment to service extended well beyond the battlefield. She served as Superintendent of Nurses at Shiawassee County Hospital from 1946 to 1957. She then worked in private nursing from 1957 to 1961 before becoming a vision technician with the Shiawassee County Health Department in 1961.
When Irene returned home after serving in World War II, she faced yet another battle: the fight for recognition and equality. In 1946, she attempted to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), only to be told that women were not permitted to join. Undeterred, Irene persisted. For nearly four decades, she worked tirelessly to break down barriers. Her determination paid off in 1984 when she finally became a VFW member.
But Irene’s journey was far from over. She was destined for leadership. In 1995, she achieved a historic milestone when she became the first female commander of Shiawassee County Council VFW Post No. 4005. She later served as Chaplain of the VFW, continuing her lifelong commitment to service well into her later years.
At 106 years old, Irene was the oldest resident of Shiawassee County. Her passport bears stamps from 41 countries, a testament to her adventurous spirit. In May 2024, she participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where she celebrated her 107th birthday alongside another centenarian.
Irene’s advice to younger generations is simple yet profound: “Be a friend at all times and accept people for who they are. Each person you meet teaches you something.”
Her zest for life and her love of birdwatching, including her remarkable knowledge of Michigan’s birds, continue to inspire those around her to live life to the fullest.
Irene’s legacy is one of resilience, courage, and perseverance. Her story reminds us that determination, compassion, and a commitment to breaking barriers can lead to truly remarkable achievements.
Submitted by: MMCF