Lonnie Edward Shagena

Mr. Lonnie Edward Shagena, 64 of Anchorage, Alaska passed away December 29, 2019 at his home.

            He was born on July 22, 1955 in Bad Axe, the son of the late Ralph N. and Velma R. (Lintner) Shagena. Lonnie’s childhood was spent in the Bad Axe area before he fell in love with Alaska, where he moved and lived his entire adult life.

Lonnie worked many jobs in his lifetime, most of them being self-employed. He loved meeting people, exploring the world and sharing stories of his adventures. His personality was perfect for his most recent job, driving for Uber. He got to meet people, travel the beautiful state of Alaska and get paid to do it.

Anyone who knew Lonnie knows he always took the road less traveled and on his own terms. He attended the Olympics on a number of occasions, saw hundreds of concerts and traveled as much as possible, Las Vegas being a favorite destination. He enjoyed all sports and competed in cribbage tournaments. Everything Lonnie did, he did in a big way, even a simple trip could end in adventure.

His life experiences made him knowledgeable in a great many areas and he could easily fit into any discussion. No matter what topic, Lonnie could contribute some tidbit of obscure information to add to the exchange.

Lonnie’s friends became his family and he made friends wherever he went. These relationships spanned the entire country, especially close were his Alaskan “Family”. When Lonnie made a friend, that person was a friend for life. One only needs to took at his social media page to see the outpouring of love, memories and sympathy to know how much he meant to so many.

He is survived by his sisters, Cheryl (Edward) Prill of Bad Axe and Sheila Henderson of Columbiaville; half sister, Karen Riipi of Newberry, FL; nieces, Kari (Nick) Keller) and Amy Henderson; nephew, Alexander (Briana) Henderson; grand nephew, Warren DeBoer; uncle, Francis (Charlotte) Lintner.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents, one half brother, Roger Shagena and several aunts and uncles.

A celebration of Lonnie’s life will be held Tuesday, January 7 at 4:00 pm at the Zinger-Smigielski Funeral Home in Ubly. Mr. Alger Lemke will officiate. Lonnie will be laid to rest in the Argyle Township Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 12:00 pm until the service at 4 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been requested to Lonnie’s family, care of his sister, Cheryl Prill.