Audrey (Fortlage) Wilkinson

Audrey Wilkinson, 99, of Cadillac, Michigan passed away peacefully March 11, 2026 surrounded by love. She was born on February 5, 1927, in Cadillac, Michigan, to Erwin and Gladys Fortlage.

A graduate of Cadillac Schools, Audrey retired after 40 years of service as a Michigan Bell telephone operator. Audrey was a woman of deep and abiding faith who trusted God through every season of her nearly century-long life. She spent several months living at Curry House Assisted Living meeting up with old friends, making new friends and enjoying the care of the staff. She was thankful for all of you!

She was preceded in death by her sisters, Margaret Franklin and Noni Sias.

She is survived by her brother, Bob (Donna) Fortlage; her sister, Polly (Jerry) Jeffers; many beloved nieces and nephews; close friends, Kelly McCord and Terri Councilor; and her cherished cat, Smokey Joe. Her previous pets-especially her beagles- were like children to her and brought her immeasurable joy throughout her life.

Visitation will be held at Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home in Cadillac, Tuesday, March 17, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Audrey will be laid to rest at Maple Hill Cemetery at a later date. 

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.holdshipfuneralhomes.com

The family is being served by the Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.  

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