Irvena Angeline Rogna

Irvena Angeline Rogna (Goldsmith)
Formerly of Lansing and Dimondale

Irvena Rogna passed away peacefully after a brief hospital stay in Libertyville, Illinois on July 5, 2011.

Irvena was born at home in Ypsilanti, Michigan on August 12, 1921 to Oliver and Angeline Goldsmith.  A 1944 graduate Michigan State Normal College, she moved to Lansing with her husband and sons in 1957 and remained in the area until 2007 when they moved to Illinois to be close to family for care.

She cherished being a teacher, even more, her years in special education.  Irvena was one of original faculty members when the Waverly Schools were founded and always stressed the value of education regardless of individual ability.

Irvena is survived by her son Lawrence and daughter-in-law Cynthia (Sharp) Rogna, residents of Lake Bluff, Illinois and her cherished grandchildren Angela Lynne and Daniel Louis Rogna, both residing in Chicago.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Rino Rogna, as well as, her son, Roderick “Roddy” who passed away in 2000 after 48 years of challenging disabilities.  Those years with Rod were always viewed as a blessing – knowing why he had been given to them.

In her final days, she never lost her love for her family, her God, her friends and her life as she lived each day with a smile in kindness and dignity.

Irvena, Mom, Grandma will be deeply missed.

A memorial service in Lansing is planned for late summer. Arrangements by Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.