Doreen "Didi" McKenna

With full hearts, we announce the passing of Doreen “Didi” McKenna, who left us peacefully on June 7, 2025, at the age of 85.

Didi lived a life overflowing with family, love, laughter, and her Catholic faith. She was the beloved wife of Geno McKenna, with whom she shared 63 years built around family, hard work, travel, and plenty of adventure. Together they raised six children: Kittrick (Leo) Dignan, Kevin (Laura) McKenna, Maureen (the late Chris) DeVito, Geno (Sara Juntunen) McKenna, Kate (Paul) Bradley, and Mike (Shellie) McKenna.

Didi was a grandmother like no other. She adored each of her 21 grandchildren, taking an interest in each of their unique traits and passions. Didi happily watched her family continue to grow with the addition of four great-grandchildren. She found joy in celebrating sacraments, birthdays, music or sporting events, and graduations featuring her grandchildren. No matter the distance, Didi made an effort to be part of any celebration involving her family. She deeply cherished any moment together with her children and their families.

Didi was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she was the proud graduate of Divine Savior High School and Mount Mary College. She made friends in Milwaukee who remained dear to her throughout her life. She met Geno, a dashing and playful Irishman, while on a double date; however, Geno was not her date. The young, spirited couple quickly remedied the situation, arranged their own date, and eventually married at St. Patrick’s Church in Milwaukee on August 26, 1961. Shortly after, they headed north to Antigo where they would own and operate Geno McKenna and Sons for 44 years. They wove their passion, resolve, and perseverance together to create a business that would afford all the opportunities their children could imagine in grade school, high school, college and beyond.

In Antigo, Didi was immediately embraced by Geno's parents, Dr. EA and Clara McKenna, and his siblings. Her own parents, Frank and Dora Stiglich, followed Didi to Antigo, and they, too, were graciously welcomed into the McKenna family. As her children grew, Didi went to every school and sporting event, proving she was each child's most dedicated fan. Actually, she was the entire teams' most dedicated fan. With a constant interest in her children’s lives and activities, Didi continuously encouraged them to take on new challenges and put their best foot forward.

Didi was happiest when her family could gather together in her home for any celebration, especially Christmas and family reunions. The door was always open, and she always had extra chairs for unannounced guests. She had a creative talent for cooking, and everyone loved a seat at her table for a special meal.

Didi dedicated time outside of work and family to her community, serving on the Antigo City Council, the Housing Authority, Police and Fire Commission, the North Central Regional Planning Commission, Habitat for Humanity, and the Boys and Girls Club.

In retirement, Didi embraced the sunny days of Fort Myers, Florida, where she and Geno resided during the winter months. All who knew her were aware of her love for travel, notably with Rome capturing her heart. As an avid learner, she knew more about the Eternal City than most guidebooks and eagerly shared her knowledge on family trips. She was intently interested in her family’s and friends’ hobbies and curiosities. It was common for someone to discuss a topic with Didi and receive a newspaper or magazine article about the topic years later.

Though Didi was naturally reserved, those close to her knew her love was powerful. Her family meant everything to her. She will be remembered for her devotion as a wife and mom. Her passions are lived out each day through her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Didi is survived by Geno, her six children and their families, her 21 grandchildren, and her four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Dora Stiglich; her brother, Skip Stiglich; and her son-in-law, Chris DeVito.

Visitation will be held at St. John Catholic Church on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 9am. The funeral mass will follow and begin at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to St. John Catholic Church (415 6th Avenue, Antigo, WI 54409) or the Clara R McKenna Aquatic Center (111 Western Avenue, Antigo, WI 54409).