Adelia E. Milledge (Gath)

Adelia E. (Gath) Milledge, age 90, of Merrill/Hemlock, MI, passed away Saturday, February 18th, 2023 peacefully in the arms of the Lord. 

Adelia was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister born February 2, 1933 in Saginaw, MI to the late Walter and Emma (Wegner) Gath. She spent her years as a homemaker, helping raise the family that grew up around her. Adelia was known for her: homemade bread, donuts, canning, fried chicken, and cooking up wild game. She loved music and singing, along with playing the piano and accordion. She would sing to her grandchildren and attend jamborees throughout the years. Adelia enjoyed fishing, picking blueberries, and going to garage sales. 

Adelia would always look forward to playing bingo and participating in crafts at Pine Haven Assisted Living in Hemlock where she was a resident for over 10 years. Pine Haven staff and residents provided her with a support and community that brought joy and fulfillment.  She also enjoyed visits with clergy, participating in worship and communion whenever she had the opportunity.

Her family was most important to her. She loved family get-togethers and barbecues, and would light up any time she saw her grandchildren. Adelia is remembered as being a strong-willed and determined woman. 

Adelia is survived by four children: Dennis (Sherry) Milledge, Kathy Terrell, Bonnie (Bill) Dykstra, and Dale (Heather) Milledge Sr.; sister Darlene (Cris) Doil; five grandchildren: Denny (Dianne) Milledge, Marc Dykstra, Jessica (Benjamin) Lehew, Haley (Louis) Jerry, and Dale (Frances) Milledge Jr.; and ten great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, other family, and friends. 

Adelia was preceded in death by former husband Roy “Sonny” Milledge; grandsons Jason and Michael Milledge; son-in-law Allan Terrell; and siblings Harold (Betty) Gath, Carolyn Gath, and Donald Gath. 

A funeral service for Adelia will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 25th, 2023 at W.L. Case and Company Funeral Chapel, 125 E. Saginaw St., Merrill. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Friday, February 24th, from 2:00-4:00 pm and 6:00-8:00 pm, as well as from 10:00 am until the time of the service on Saturday. Burial is to follow at Lakefield Township Cemetery. Those wanting to make a show of their sympathy may wish to make a contribution to the Gratiot County Commission on Aging. Please share your thoughts, prayers, and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.casefuneralhome.com