Mary, Donald, Emily Fitzgerald and Jeffery Johnson | Anniversary

Mary Ann Fitgerald, Donald E. Fitzgerald, and Emily K. Fitzgerald all of Tustin died Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Tyrone Township, Livingston County, Michigan. Jeffery Micheal Johnson of Tustin passed away, Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Mary was 44 years old, born December 17, 1979, in Cadillac. He graduated from Cadillac Area Public Schools and later earned his Associate’s degree from Baker College in Cadillac. Mary worked at Rexair in Cadillac for two years, although her favorite career was being a wife and mother. Mary devoted her life to her husband and children, making and capturing memories of every possible moment. He was an active member of the Big Rapids Figure Skating Club, where he served as club treasurer and fulfilled many other duties. In addition, Mary loved animals. In particular, with the help of ARK, he found joy in rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing raccoons. Mary married her husband, Cory, on November 16, 2001. If there was one word to describe Mary, it would be joy. He was rarely seen without a smile on his face and pacing happily. He had an amazing ability to see the good in others and the positive in any situation.

Jeffery was 22 years old, born June 30, 2001, in Cadillac. He graduated in 2019 from Pine River High School. Jeff had an incredible zest for life. He had an unmatched drive to succeed and was well on his way to his new job at All Weather Seal in Traverse City, MI where he was impressed. Never one to miss an opportunity, Jeff jumped at the chance to challenge himself, which inspired many others to do the same. Next to family, his priorities were his friendships, playing cards, basketball, basketball, and more basketball. However, most important to him was his lover, Emrie Chadwick, whom he loved very much. The two had a relationship that was not very good. He was often thought of as a quiet person, but once you got to know him, he would command the attention of anyone around you and make you smile and laugh with his quick wit.

Donald was 18 years old, born January 9, 2006, in Cadillac. He was a senior at Pine River High School and enrolled in CTC’s welding program with aspirations of becoming a pipe welder. He loved anything with a motor. Donald’s motto was, “when in doubt, take it out.” He was often found working on trucks and ATVS. He also loved spending time in the woods, fishing, or riding the trails on his dirt bike or four wheeler. Donald was generous and it showed through his devotion to his family and many friends. A remarkable young man who stood above the crowd, not only in height, but in his kind attitude.

Emily was 16 years old, born on March 1, 2008, in Cadillac. She was a sophomore at Cadillac Area Public Schools and a member of the Greater Rapids Figure Skating Club and the Middle Mitt High School Skating team. He was an accomplished athlete, competing and performing in ice shows across the region. Emily was a bright and fiery young lady with an infectious laugh, a larger-than-life personality and loved making friends everywhere she went. Her warm heart, determination, and ambition made her a great role model for young skaters. His presence lit up the ice rink, which was his happy place. Emily also loved spending time with her family and friends, helping her mother fix animals, and had a talent and love for baking.

Mary, Jeff, Donald, and Emily are loved and greatly missed by all. Their memories will live on in our hearts forever.

Family survivors include husband and father, Cory Fitzgerald; Jeffery’s father, Jamie Gengler, his siblings, Cori (Anthony)Greenwood and Nathaniel “Nate” Fitzgerald, Mary’s parents: Dennis Johnson and Judy (Mark) Haviland, Mary’s brother, Micheal Johnson; and many cousins, aunts, and uncles .

A celebration of their lives will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, April 25, 2024, at the Wexford Civic Center (1320 N Mitchell St, Cadillac, MI 49601) with Pastor Curtis Rider officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday, April 24, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Peterson Funeral & Cremation Service in Cadillac.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Association to Rescue Kritters (ARK). An online guestbook is available www.petersonfh.com.