Mary, Donald, Emily Fitzgerald and Jeffery Johnson

Mary Ann Fitgerald, Donald E. Fitzgerald, and Emily K. Fitzgerald all of Tustin passed away 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, born Dec. 17, 1979, in Cadillac. She graduated from Cadillac Area Public Schools and later earned her 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. She was an active member of the Big Rapids Figure Skating Club, where she acted as the club treasurer and fulfilled many other duties. Additionally, Mary was passionate about animals. Specifically, with the aid of A.R.K., she 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. She was rarely seen without a smile on her face and a joyful bounce in her step. She had an uncanny ability to see the good in others and the positive in any situation. Jeffery was 22, 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 with his newfound career at All Weather Seal in Traverse City, MI where he was greatly admired. 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 girlfriend, Emrie Chadwick, who he loved dearly. The two had a bond that was nothing short of beautiful. He was often thought to be a quiet soul, but once you got to know him, he would command the attention of anyone around and have you smiling and laughing with his quick wit. Donald was 18, born January 9, 2006, in Cadillac. He was a senior at Pine River High School and enrolled in CTC welding program with aspirations of being a pipeline welder. He loved anything with a motor. Donald’s motto was, “when in doubt, throttle 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 4-wheeler. Donald was kindhearted and it showed through his dedication to his family and many friends. A wonderful young man who stood above the crowd, not just in height, but in his virtuous attitude. Emily was 16, born on March 1, 2008, in Cadillac. She was a sophomore at Cadillac Area Public Schools and a member of the Big Rapids Figure Skating Club and Middle of the Mitt High School Figure Skating team. She was an accomplished figure skater, competing and performing in ice shows around the region.Emily was a fierce and fiery young lady with an infectious laugh, a larger-than-life personality and loved to make friends everywhere she went. Her warm heart, determination, and ambition made her an ideal role-model for young skaters. Her presence lit up the ice rink, which was her happy place. Emily also loved spending time with her family and friends, helping her mom with animal rehabilitation, and had a talent and love for baking. Mary, Jeff, Donald, and Emily are loved and missed dearly by all. Their memories will continue to live on in our hearts forever. Survivors of the family include husband and dad, Cory Fitzgerald; Jeffery’s dad, Jamie Gengler, 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 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 to7:00 pm at the Peterson Funeral and Cremation Services in Cadillac. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Association to Rescue Kritters (A.R.K.). An online guestbook is available at www.petersonfh.com.

Mary, Donald, Emily Fitzgerald and Jeffery Johnson

March 31, 2024 - April 4, 2024