Rochester Hills, Michigan- The City of Rochester Hills is mourning the passing of former Mayor Billie Ireland, 83, who served as Township Trustee for Avon Charter Township in 1980 and became the first Council President of the Charter Commission for the City of Rochester Hills. She served as Mayor for 10 years, serving 2 four-year terms after filling the unexpired term of former Mayor Earl Borden.
At the time, elected officials did not have term limits until 1995, so Mayor Ireland ran for re-election and won in both the 1987 and 1991 elections. Having retired in 1995, Mayor Ireland lived in Gladwin County and is survived by her husband of 65 years.
Mayor Ireland was at the helm in the establishment of our community, including the creation of the Public Safety Building (Fire Station #1), the $9 Million Recreation Bond issue of 1988, and the land purchases of Riverbend, Nowicki, Avondale, and Bloomer Parks. Mayor Ireland played a key role in the development of Borden Park, as well as in both the Museum and Dairy Barn renovations.
“Mayor Ireland served at a time when our city was just beginning to grow. Countless subdivisions were being developed, as well as malls, shopping centers and several research & development parks,” states Mike Hartner, Parks & Forestry Director.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the entire family as we remember what an extraordinary leader she was and the legacy that she has left in our community,” states Mayor Bryan K. Barnett.
Mayor Barnett has requested that the flags at all municipal buildings be flown at half-staff through Thursday, December 1, 2011, in honor of her service to our community.
Visitation for friends and family will be held on Wednesday, November 30 from 1-6pm at Hall Funeral Home located at 440 East Cedar Avenue, Gladwin, Michigan. The memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 1, 2011 and 1pm at the funeral home. Family requests that donations in her honor be sent to the American Lung Association
About Tom and Ann Gendich