Julie Ann Wilson

Julie Ann Wilson, our beloved sister & friend to many, has passed away. On Veterans Day, Saturday, November 11, 2023, she was busy with her many projects at her home and had a massive stroke. She was taken to MyMichigan Health Hospital in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, where she passed away on Sunday, November 12, 2023, at 4:06 PM. She was 65 years old. Julie was born on August 24, 1958, in La Grange, Illinois near Chicago. She was the third child and only daughter born into a family of eight. The family moved to Farmington Michigan in 1961 when she was only three years old, and it was there that she would complete all her formal education. Julie went on to attend Central Michigan University with her brother Tom along with her good friend and cousin Linda Leary. She earned a bachelor's degree in physical education, and then went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie. Following in the footsteps of her father, Captain Robert Lekovish, and three of her brothers, she joined the US Navy, and eventually earned the rank of Lieutenant Commander. It was in the Navy, where she met her husband, Dennis Wilson while stationed in Sardinia Italy, which they often recalled as being some of the best times of their lives. They were married at Saint Phillips church in Beulah, Michigan in 1985, and several years later moved to Sugar Island. Sadly, her husband passed away in 2011. Julie carried on with her nursing career which took her to many states, and countries most notably, the Army medical hospital in Landstuhl, Germany where she cared for many service members, during the most difficult times of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, for which she earned many awards and commendations. Miraflor Sumait was a lifelong military best friend who Julie spoke of often and they shared many worldwide adventures. Julie always had a lot of hobbies and interests, and her favorite was the time she spent with her friends on the Sugar Island Historical Preservation Society. Julie was a true dog lover, and rescued many from the animal shelter, dogs were her best companions. She loved sports, especially hockey and was a huge Red Wings fan. Harvesting and processing Maple syrup was also a favorite hobby, as well as rock collecting and cutting. The history channel was perhaps her favorite entertainment, especially all things military. Never having had children of her own, Julie was able to share her generous and caring nature with a large number of family members, friends, and shipmates from her time in the US Navy. Julie has been a part of many groups and organizations, especially on Sugar Island, where she maintained a large network of friends. Social activities were perhaps her favorite past time and the close-knit community of Sugar Island was the perfect setting for participation and involvement. She will be remembered by many. Julie is survived by her brothers, Dan, Tom, Patrick, Joe, and John. Other family members include her nephews, Nick, Bobby, Alex, and niece, Laura. Also, all of her cousins from the Leary family. Her other close extended family members are cousin, Arriana & family, and favorite sister-in-law, Irena, all from the Detroit area. Her parents, Robert, age 86, and Patricia, age 91, both passed away in Frankfort Michigan in 2019 and 2022 respectively. Per Julie's wishes cremation will take place and due to the sudden nature of her passing, and the large number of friends and family involved, the memorial service will be determined at a later time. Memorial donations can be made to the Sugar Island Historical Preservation Society. Condolences can be sent to Joe Lekovish and family, 40225 Gilbert Street, Plymouth, MI 47180. Many thanks to all those who have already reached out to express condolences. We love you Jules. For all eternity may you rest in peace. "The Journey is the Destination"

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Julie Ann Wilson

August 24, 1958 - November 12, 2023