Louella May Brethauer, a devoted wife and mother, passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Horizon Senior Living in West Branch, Michigan at the age of 92. Born on Tuesday, January 21, 1934, in Jackson, Ohio, to Wilbert and Alice (Pidcock) Lucas. Louella was well known for her loving and caring personality.
Throughout her life, Louella dedicated herself to raising her family while also enjoying hobbies such as bowling, playing Yahtzee, and doing bible word searches. Most importantly, she had a passion for reading her Bible every day. Louella’s commitment to her family and her faith were the cornerstones of her life.
Louella leaves behind her loving family, including daughters Virginia (Dan) Homan, Jeri (Jim) Gonka, and Ilene (Dennis) Helfirch; sons James (Elaine) McGahan, Robert McGahan, and John (Joanne) McGahan. She was also cherished by 23 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren. Louella is survived by her sisters Janice Cotter and Ruby Rich, as well as her brother Tim Lucas.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Carl McGahan, followed by her second husband, Bill Brethauer. Louella also mourned the loss of her daughter, Norma Davison; son, Gerald McGahan; granddaughters Rita and Cynthia; brothers Wilbert and Paul Lucas; and sisters Alice Eagle and Rose Dyl.
Visitation will be held on February 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Homes in St. Helen, Michigan. After the funeral service, a graveside service will take place at Fairview Cemetery in Richfield Township at 2:00 PM.
Louella will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, and her legacy of love and dedication will live on through her family.