Laurita Hodge

Laurita Teresa Hodge, 97, of Charlevoix, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025 at the American House in Charlevoix, Michigan. She was born on January 11, 1928, in Sanilac County, MI, the daughter of James and Fleeta (Harris) Ross.

Laurita married Herbert Hodge of Snover, MI on April 18, 1953 in Marlette. They eventually moved to northern Michigan and raised 5 children. When ready for retirement, they made the little stone house in Ironton their home where she grew flowers and enjoyed creating beautiful arrangements. With her husband, she traveled the country, walking the beaches and exploring the forests, enjoying everything nature had to offer. Drawing inspiration from the places she visited, she used her natural artistic talent to create paintings that her children now treasure.

Surviving Laurita are her five children, Bruce Hodge of Boyne Falls, MI, Mike (Terri) Hodge of Petoskey, MI, Rex (Juanita) Hodge of Zeeland, MI, Sandra (Paul) Sondgerath of South Haven, MI, and Sue (Mike) Kiteley of Charlevoix, MI; 10 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are her sisters, Marie Mortensen of Ludington MI, Arlene Looney of Lancaster CA, and Helene Lick of Caro MI.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Herbert, and her sister Jean Wilson.

Laurita’s family will be celebrating her life privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

Ironton Congregational Church, 3582 Washington Ave., Ironton MI 49720 or

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council, 426 Bay St., Petoskey MI 49770

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com