Ilene Causer McKenna

Our gracious and kind mother, Ilene Causer McKenna passed away on a beautiful Spring day surrounded by her loved ones at home, which was her wish. A Utah native, Ilene was born in 1926 in Price, Utah. The youngest of five children of Ada Christiansen and John Causer, she was the last to go. She told lively tales of growing up in Carbon County where she met the love of her life, Johnny McKenna, as a sophomore at Carbon High School. Ilene graduated from St. Mary’s of the Wasatch in Salt Lake City. She attended The College of Eastern Utah until 1945 when John returned from WWII. They married and moved to Salt Lake City where they set up residence. Ilene liked to watercolor, craft, read, perfect her calligraphy and to play bridge. She was a founding member of her bridge group established over 68 years ago! Widowed after 48 years of marriage, Ilene went on to enjoy a full and rich life with her many friends and loving family. She enjoyed entertaining at her beautiful home which she cared for meticulously and where she prepared incredibly delicious meals and candy. Every holiday display was so meaningful to each of us. Mom was devoted to and a champion for her four children, Rick, Jeffrey, Kevin (deceased) and Courtney. She loved their spouses as her own Nick, Joan and Alane. Thrilled with her seven grandchildren; Erin, Colin, Kayla, Kelly, Sean, Connor, Morgan and overjoyed with her Eight Greats; Kaia, Nico, Isla, Mae, Santi, Clara, Remington and James Kevin. “GiGi” always had a gift in hand for each of them. She rejoined her husband John and son Kevin on May 13, 2022. She was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

The family will conduct a private graveside service at her request.

Thank you To Veronica, mother’s caregiver, who was at her side until the end. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers Memorial Contributions to The Moran Eye Institute at the University of Utah Macular Degeneration would be appreciated.

Every time you see a ladybug think of Ilene.