Leona Helen Symon's Obituary
Big Rapids - Leona Helen (Patten) Symon, 91, of Big Rapids passed away Saturday, July 24, 2021, at Evergreen Terrace in Big Rapids.
Leona was born in Hersey, MI on August 4, 1929, to Walter and Helen (Goodburn) Patten. In 1948, she graduated from Big Rapids High School, then later married the love of her life, Walter E. Symon on July 2, 1949.
She is survived by her sister Norma MacKellar; her grandchildren, Josh (Nicole) Symon, Heather Symon (Justin) Bassett, Jesse Symon, and Nick (Jenny) Symon; six great-grandchildren, Morgan, Walter, Kayla, Henry, Reese and Leyton; and several great-nieces and -nephews.
Leona and her sister Norma were huge hockey fans, and even into their nineties would call each other to make sure they knew the Red Wings were going to be on TV that night. She would regularly go to her grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's sporting events and really enjoyed watching them compete. Leona was an alpha in the work force as a manager at AAA, and she was the perfect matriarch of our family. She had an incredible sense of humor and was a spitfire that could let you know exactly what she thought with just a look. She was passionate about her family and loved animals, including several dogs she had over the years. Leona loved wildlife, and would feed the squirrels, stray cats, and occasionally, a raccoon at her house. She said the cats with the rings on their tails needed food too. Leona will be dearly missed and will always be loved by everyone that got to know her.
Heaven will have its hands full with this firecracker, but we know she's happy reuniting with her husband Walter and sons Terry and Mike. Her remains will be laid to rest with them at Highland View Cemetery. Memorial contributions in her name may be made for Elara Caring Hospice, or to Evergreen Terrace.
Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at www.mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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