It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Leona May (Penny) Albaugh Winterstein, who departed from this life on May 14, 2026, in Merrill, Michigan. Born on November 15, 1932, to Raymond and Edna (Gath) Penny in Saginaw, Michigan, Leona lived a life filled with joy, love, and a variety of passions.

As a young woman, she met and married William Albaugh on June 3, 1950, with whom she shared many laughs, travels and dances. In 1953, they welcomed their first daughter. Two years later, their first son was welcomed into the family. In 1959, they welcomed their twin boys, and shortly after, another daughter. After only a few short years, their family grew to seven. They spent 48 years together before his passing in 1998. After his passing, she met Lester Winterstein, with whom she enjoyed time at their lakeside home.

Leona was a woman of many talents and interests. She found pleasure in the simple things, like a good game of cards or cribbage, as well as in more creative pursuits such as ceramics, crocheting, sewing, and gardening. She had an eye for a bargain and loved going to yard sales, always on the lookout for a hidden treasure. Leona was also known for her love of travel, exploring new places, and making cherished memories. She enjoyed playing shuffleboard and dancing, particularly ballroom dancing, where she could express her grace and enthusiasm. Another source of pride was her Christmas decorations, for which she was recognized many years in a row for her creative eye and childlike imagination.

Leona is survived by her children and their spouses, Susan and David Cole of Breckenridge, MI, Kenneth and Frances Albaugh of Kewadin, MI, Daniel and Robin Albaugh of Memphis, TN, Dennis and Marlowe Albaugh of Wheeler, MI, and Connie and Scott McCullough of Naples, FL; as well as 20 grandchildren, several great- and great-great-grandchildren; sister, Donna Milbrandt; brother, Marvin "Mike" (Marlene) Penny; as well as many neices, nephews, and friends that will hold her memory dear.

Alongside her parents and her first husband William, Leona was preceded in death by her second husband, Lester Winterstein.

The impact of Leona's vibrant spirit and her dedication to her interests speaks volumes about the fullness of her life. Leona's memory will be treasured by all who knew her. Her warmth, creativity, and the joy she brought to every gathering will be deeply missed.

A funeral service is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at W.L Case and Company Funeral Directors, 125 E. Saginaw St, Merrill, MI 48637, at 11:00am. Pastor John Cole will officiate. Friends may gather with the family on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at the funeral home, and again from 10:00am to 11:00am until the time of the service on Wednesday. A private interment will follow the service.