Lena Elizabeth Ely

     Lena Elizabeth Ely, age 99, of Maple Rapids, MI, passed away Friday, June 13, 2025, at Hazel I. Findlay Country Manor, St. Johns, MI.
     Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI at 1:00 P.M. on Monday, June 23, 2025. Burial will take place at Fulton Center Cemetery, Perrinton, MI. Visitation will be held on Monday from 12:00 P.M. until the time of service at the funeral home.
     Lena was born in Fulton Township, MI on November 5, 1925, the daughter of Henry and Hannah (Rapphun) Zittel. She was a graduate of Fulton High School. Lena married Richard William Ely and he passed away in 2003.
     Lena volunteered her time at the Social Security Office and at St. Vincent de Paul both in St. Johns. She loved to be outdoors in the fall enjoying all nature had to offer. Lena was a true homemaker, caring for her family and will always be remembered for her wonderful apple pies. She also enjoyed clogging, bowling, and playing cards with friends and family.
     She is survived by her daughter Lynette Suggitt of British Columbia; son William and Kathy Ely of Mesick, MI; daughter Becky Ely of West Bloomfield, MI; daughter Pamela and Dirk Bruinsma of Indio, CA; daughter Jennifer Berry of Lafayette, GA; son Rick, and Angela Ely of South Haven, MI; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lena was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her siblings.
     Memorials may be made to St. Vincent de Paul. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.