Roxie Elizabeth Fernelius of Roscommon, MI passed away on May 19, 2023 at the age of 97 with family by her side.
Roxie was born August 11, 1925 to Ovell (Underwood) and Arshak (Sogomonian) Summers. She married Carl Fernelius in Detroit on January 20, 1951. He preceded her in death in 2014.
After graduating from Cass Technical High School in 1943 and the University of MI School of Nursing in 1948 (GO BLUE!), Roxie taught nursing at U of M, Wayne State University, and Kirtland Community College. She also volunteered for the American Red Cross. A couple of highlights in Roxie’s life were spending summers during the early years of their marriage at Camp Hayo-Went-Ha on Torch Lake as the camp nurse and Carl as counselor. They also had the opportunity of spending two years living in Finland where Carl taught English at the University of Joensuu.
After their retirement, Roxie and Carl spent summers on Drummond Island and winters in Georgia. The light of her life was becoming a grandmother of 5 and great-grandmother of 8. She was an avid reader, belonged to the local book club, and enjoyed the local cultural arts. She also enjoyed going for walks, bird watching, and music. Roxie was a founding member of Kirtland Ms. And was known for her kindness, generosity, caring and selflessness, always upbeat and proud of her Armenian heritage.
Roxie is survived by her Sister: Shirley Dezso, four Children: Karen (Steve) Coe, Mark (Donna) Fernelius, Laura (Ceci Cain) Fernelius, and Eric (Diane) Fernelius, five Grandchildren: Elysabeth (Bubba) Dreger, Summer (Jim) Tambs, Sydney Marriott, Braden (Larissa) Coe, and Jessica Fernelius, eight Great-Grandchildren: Brookelyn, Sebastian, Arshak, Coleman, Astrid, Solomon, Finnian, and Jonah and “Adopted” Daughter: Ann (Chuck) Muchukot. Roxie is also survived by many Nieces, Nephews, and good friends.
Preceded in death by her parents, Brothers: Henry and John, Sisters-In Law: Gail and Ann and Brother-In Law: George Dezso.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 19, 2023 at Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home in Grayling. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am up until the time of service, 1:00 pm. Memorial contributions in Roxie’s name may be made to the Library of Michigan Foundation, dedication indicating “BTBL”, P.O. Box 11027, Lansing, MI 48901, or Hospice of Michigan, 830 S. Otsego Ave., Gaylord, MI 49735
Many “Thanks” to the staff of Northern Pines Assisted Living.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sorensonlockwood.com. Arrangements by Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.
