Eileen E. Dams

Eileen was born Sep. 22, 1924, in Utica, Mich., to Earnest and Georgianna (Bondy) Sabell. She was raised in the Detroit area and graduated from Western High in 1943. After high school, Eileen met Earl Dams, a Yooper from Iron Mountain, who was working in Detroit. The couple was married on Nov. 15, 1946, at St. Mark’s Evangelical Church in Highland Park, Mich. They remained in Detroit for several years and eventually made their way up to Kingsford where they raised their only daughter, Sheree.

After 46 years of marriage, Earl passed away in 1992.

Eileen worked for the freight lines as well as in a motorcycle accessory factory in Detroit but was most proud of being a homemaker for her family. Among other great talents, her grandchildren say she could have been a professional back scratcher!

Church and community were an important part of Eileen’s life. She was a devout member of First Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday school. She belonged to Lutheran Church Women and was chairwoman of the nursery, treasurer and vice president of that organization.

She belonged to a group called Holy Comforters, making quilts for World Relief. Eileen was also active in the Memorial Hospital League, Breen Senior Center, and later, the residence council at Florence Health Services, where she enjoyed the crafts, entertainment and playing bingo.

Left to cherish her memory are Eileen’s daughter, Sheree (Mark) Brynick; grandchildren, Abbey Hayes, Josi and Mat (Taylore) Brynick; great-grandchildren, Carson Hayes, Finley, Maverick and Eden Brynick; brother, Gerald (Susan) Sabell; as well as 18 nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Eileen was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Dams; brother, Frederick Sabell; sister, Betty Cloutier; and half-sister, Norma Nagel.

The family would like to extend their gratitude for the wonderful care provided by Florence Health Services.

In accordance with her wishes, Eileen will be cremated and private family services will be held.

Condolences may be expressed to the family of Eileen Dams online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.