Judith A. "Gert" Sturgell's Obituary
Judith A. “Gert” Sturgell, age 80, passed away early Monday, January 18, 2021. She was born on June 25, 1940 to Theodore and Rosemary (Mazurkiewicz) Szpeinski in Grand Rapids, MI. She was a faithful servant of Our Lord and Savior and a devout Catholic. She graduated from all girls Sacred Heart High School in Grand Rapids, class of 1957. She continued her education at Ferris University where she earned her degree in graphic design. She was a dedicated employee and worked for 15 years at Almond Enterprise as a Material Planner she then continued her career at Progress Machine & Tool before retiring. Gert truly enjoyed volunteering her time and playing a part in her community. She regularly participated in Crusillo de Colores Retreats, helping many find peace through the Lord. Judy was part of the team that started the Hackley and Hume Home and for many years was the Head of Tour Guides. She also volunteered at the Welcome Wagon, The Salvation Army and Frauenthal Theater, where she acted in several plays and helped as an usher. Judy also enjoyed singing and music and participated in Celebration Singers for several decades. She also enjoyed gardening, laughing, and keeping her faith and love with Jesus. She will be remembered always with having a smile on her face and continuously filling a room with laughter. Her bubbly and joyous spirit will be missed by many. She is survived by her 3 sons, Frank Sturgell, Brad (Mary) Sturgell, and Geoff (Tina) Sturgell; 4 grandchildren, Elle (Rudy) Hodits, Rhiannon Sturgell, Bailey Sturgell and Trent Sturgell; brother, Gene Szpeinski; sister-in-law, Karen Szpeinski; and dear friends, Barb Novak and Rose Mosley. She is preceded in death by her parents; father of her children, Frank Sturgell; and brother, Ted Szpeinski. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 25, 2021 starting with a service at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 451 Getty St. Muskegon, at 2:00PM to honor Gert’s memory. A repast will follow at Geoff’s house, 3150 S Wolf Lake Rd. Fruitport. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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