Ilene Causer McKenna
July 21, 1926 - May 13, 2022
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.
In Loving Memory
I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am for your pain and your loss. You are an amazing, loving, caring family. It was so special to see Ilene always talking about her children with so much love and gratefulness. You made her day every day when you called her or came to see her. I'm very grateful to have met Ilene and her sweet, funny family! It was so sweet to see Ilene and her children together. She loves you! She always will, and she will always watch over you. You'll be with her again one day. It was really special to be able to witness the love of the Savior for Ilene and her family.Thank you so much for allowing me to care for your sweet mom. It's been a pleasure, a privilege, a great honor, and blessing to have met Ilene. I know she loved me because every night she would tell me so. I love her too. I'm so thankful for all she taught me. She will always be in my heart. She will always be my little ladybug friend.❤️��❤️
I have fond memories of Ilene. She was always dressed to the nines and looked like a million bucks, and always had a smile on her face. My memories mostly were with the group of friends. My parents Carl and Nedra, Judy and Buff, Jean and Bob. The serious bridge nights (involving laughter and good food and a few drinks) Your mom always talked about you children and your latest accomplishments. Proud Mom! Sorry to all of you for the loss of your Mom. I hope her love and fond memories wrap you in peace. She is probably organizing a bridge club with the gang as we speak. Sending condolence to you all. Cindy (Nyman) Horrocks
Our deepest sympathies to the entire McKenna clan. Steve Summers & Maggie Shaw
My greatest sympathy goes out to Rick, Jeff & Courtney. Nothing now anyone can say will make your loss any easier. Memories from my youth include how warm your mother was whenever I visited at East Moor Road and how pleased she was when Rick shared that I thought she looked like a movie star. I can only imagine all the inspiration she provided to all her family.
Ilene was always so friendly and spot on with her thoughts and opinions. I loved her laughter and kindness. ilene and my mom enjoyed each other's company. My mom raves about anything Ilene. your mom always spoke so highly of each of you. She was a very proud mama. You will miss her presence yet, remember how present she was during your lives. my heart is with each of you. Rest In Peace dear Ilene. Fondly, Ruth Peters
I was so sorry to hear of dear Ilene's passing, I remember so many good times with her and my mom. She will be so missed. All my love to you all.
So sorry to hear about your loss, she was my great aunt. My prayers and condolences to you all. My dad said she was a nice lady and will be surely missed.
In Loving Memory
