AnnaMae Illig Obituary
AnnaMae "Annie" Illig, born to Walter and Anna Reilly on July 26, 1931, in Selkirk, MI, embraced her final peace on March 18, 2025, in Midland, MI, surrounded by the love of her family. Her 93 years were marked by a warmth and wisdom that enriched the lives of all who knew her.
At the age of 19, Annie started her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse in West Branch, an experience that highlighted her passion for teaching and support for her community. Her tenure there spanned 16 remarkable years, fostering generations of learners. On June 14, 1952, Annie married her lifelong companion, Kenneth L. Illig, a West Branch dairy farmer. In 1966, Annie and Ken transitioned to the world of business, moving to Standish and entering the insurance industry, where they prospered together until his passing on October 27, 1990.
Inseparable from her faith, Annie was a dedicated member of Resurrection of The Lord Catholic Church from 1966. She also devoted her time to the Standish Hospital Auxiliary.
Her love for life was evident in her personal interests. Born into a large family of music lovers, Annie, her parents and siblings shared their passion for music by performing as a family all around the area, not to mention at family gatherings and wherever else they could…playing the piano, guitar, and fiddle for all who would listen. Annie also found joy in golfing well into her 80s, and she enjoyed bowling and card games. Family and friends will remember her as the loving matriarch, ensuring each moment together was cherished and full of laughter.
Annie's living legacy flourishes through her children, Jeff (Chris) Illig, Julie (John) Hoffman, Janet (Dale) Clyde, and daughter-in-law Susan (Frank) Illig. She was the proud grandmother to Stephanie Potts, Kristen (Michael) Luberda, Ken (Kimberly) Hoffman, Sean (Jillian) Hoffman, Emily (Eric) Hribek, Derrek (Kayari) Clyde, and Kennedy Clyde; all of whom, along with 16 great-grandchildren, will continue to carry her spirit forward. She is also survived by her sister, Bonnie (Dalton) Wiltse.
Annie was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ken Illig, son, Frank Illig, and her siblings Ella (Kenneth) McPherson, Walter Jr. (Jeweldine) Reilly, Robert (Wanda) Reilly, Alan Reilly, Henry (Elsie) Reilly, and Patricia (Keith) LaFountain.
Annie's life, embroidered with love, kindness, and wisdom, will be held dear in the memories of those she leaves behind. Her light will continue to guide and inspire even as she rests in peace.
A special thank you to the dedicated and loving staff at Primrose Retirement Community in Midland, Michigan, where Annie spent the last five years of her life.
Funeral Mass will be held Monday, March 24, 2025, at 11:00 am at Resurrection of The Lord Catholic Church, 423 W Cedar St. Standish, MI., with Rev. Fr. David Parsch presiding, with burial at Resurrection of The Lord Cemetery. Friends may visit at the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home-Standish Chapel, 127 N Forest St. Standish, MI., on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 2-7:30pm with a Prayer Vigil beginning at 7:30pm. On Monday, friends may visit the church from 10:00 am until time of mass.
