Irene B. Dettmers, a beloved member of the Northbrook community, passed away on January 6, 2026, at the age of 88. She succumbed to a lengthy battle with lung cancer that lasted nine and a half years. Irene was a long-time resident of Northbrook, having been raised in nearby Winnetka, Illinois.
Born to the late Vern and Ray Bennigsen, Irene’s legacy includes her late husband, Leonard Dettmers, and her previous marriages to Michael Feltes and Robert Cronin. She is preceded in death by her son, Robert Cronin, as well as her sister, Dorothy Pryor, and brother, John Bennigsen.
Irene is survived by her children, Jerry Cronin (Staci) and Beth Glass (Chris), along with her cherished grandchildren: Connor and Natalie Cronin, Chris and Holly Cronin, and Brad and Blake Glass. Her family also includes stepchildren Leigh Klobucar (Jack), Laurie Dettmers (Roger Kopecki), Jane Bakey (Patrick), Michael Feltes (Betsy), Linda Feltes, Laura Feltes, and Carolyn Feltes (Doug DuFrane). The grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Leonard and Irene held a very special place in her heart.
Visitation and Memorial Details
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on February 28, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the start of the Mass at 10:00 AM. The services will take place at St. Norbert and Our Lady of the Brook Parish, located at 1809 Walters Avenue, Northbrook, IL, 60062.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to one of Irene’s preferred charities, the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, at 1140 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60607-2906. For further information, individuals can contact the funeral home at 847-675-1990 or visit their website.
Irene B. Dettmers will be remembered for her warm spirit and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her enduring legacy will live on through the many lives she touched during her time in the community.
