Michael Ray Irwin

Michael Ray Irwin, 85, a lifelong Gaston resident, passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at home.

Michael was born on June 24, 1937, in Muncie to the late Ray and Marjorie Irwin. He was a 1955 graduate of Harrison Township High School. Michael was an incredible chemist, pioneering many new battery technologies while working at Delco Remy. He traveled to Detroit Motor Speedway to test new battery technologies. Michael was an outstanding showman of swine throughout his life, showing 60 consecutive years at the Indiana State Fair. He had a passion for life that was unrivalled. He traveled to the far reaches of the country to show his prized spotted pigs, all while taking care of his children and grandchildren along the way. His love for sports cannot be overstated with his diehard love of the Cubs, Pacers, Colts, and Ball State Cardinals.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 40  years, Jacquie Irwin; five children, Susan Irwin-Simmons (husband John), Jacqueline Johnson (husband Calvin), Michael Scott Irwin (wife Nancy), Kimberly Irwin, and Matthew Irwin; a brother, James Irwin; eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and one on the way.

Michael was preceded in death by a sister, Judith Irwin; sister-in-law, Charlotte Irwin; and an uncle, Gene Irwin.

A funeral service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, January 14, 2023, at Gant Funeral Homes – Gaston Chapel, 109 W. Elm St. in Gaston. Burial will follow in Thompson Cemetery.

Friends and family may gather to share and remember from 12:00 pm until 2:00 PM Saturday at Gant Funeral Homes – Gaston Chapel.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to the Cardinal Varsity Club, 2800 W. Bethel Ave, Muncie, IN 47304 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Share a memory of Michael and leave your condolences at www.gantfuneralhomes.com

The Gant and Miller families are honored to celebrate Michael’s life with his family and community.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Ray Irwin, please visit our floral store.