CHRISTENA ANN FITZGERALD

Christena Ann Fitzgerald, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away peacefully on Oct. 5, 2024, in St. Ignace, Michigan. Born on Oct. 26, 1942, in Detroit, to the late Thomas and Marjorie Finegan, Christena’s life was a tapestry woven with devotion to her family, a passion for creativity, and an unwavering spirit of service.

Christena’s early years in Detroit set the stage for a life filled with love and laughter. She was a cherished sister to Ted (Karen) Llewellyn, Nancy Lang, and Diane Burns. Her journey led her to the love of her life, Edward Fitzgerald, who preceded her in death, along with their son Thomas and granddaughter Savannah Rose Vassallo. Together, Christena and Edward built a family legacy that includes their loving children: Edmund, Brian (Nikki), Kelly-Fitzgerald (Tim) Stevens, Chris (Shari) Fitzgerald, and Erin (Sergio) Vasquez. Her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother was one she embraced with joy and pride, leaving behind a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry her memory forward.

A lifelong learner, Christena’s educational pursuits resulted in multiple degrees that reflected her varied interests and her zest for life. Her professional path was equally diverse, including roles as an accountant for the MSU surgical team, a medical coder at Sparrow Hospital, and a caretaker at the Alpena air base. She also brought her meticulous skills to positions at Dunkin Donuts, Target, H&R Block, and Joan Fabrics.

Beyond her professional and community achievements, Christena’s interests painted a picture of a woman with boundless energy and creativity. An artist at heart, she found solace and joy in canning, sewing, and cooking–her meatballs were legendary, and her wedding cakes were the centerpiece of many a joyful celebration. Her love for travel took her to new places, while her passion for bowling, Elvis, and crafting Halloween costumes for her grandchildren added fun and festivity to every occasion. As a den leader for both the Boys and Girl Scouts and an election judge in Illinois, she shaped young minds and upheld civic duty with dedication. Christena’s legacy is one of love and selflessness. She was the matriarch who held her family together, the friend who listened with an open heart, and the community member who gave without expecting anything in return. Her home was a haven where everyone was welcome, and her kitchen was the heart of that home, filled with the aromas of her famous dishes and the warmth of her presence.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at McWilliams Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 11 a.m. with the Rev. John Shipman officiating. Memorial donations can be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at www.lbda.org.