Ava June Gies

Ava June Gies of Linkville, age 91, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Tuscola County Care Community. She was born on May 29, 1935, the daughter of the late Bert and Hazel (Cummings) Dubs. Ava graduated from Owendale High School and went on to work at Walsh Packing Company and several local egg plants throughout her career, eventually retiring from Beachy Eggs.

Ava was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Linkville, where she was baptized, confirmed, and married. On May 5, 1956, she married the love of her life, Henry Gies, Jr. Together, they shared over sixty-five wonderful years of marriage and countless cherished memories before Henry's passing on June 4, 2021.

Ava took great pride in caring for her home and family. She was a wonderful homemaker who enjoyed cooking, baking, and canning. She was especially known for her delicious Christmas cookies and homemade pie crust, which were always family favorites. Above all, Ava treasured her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her endless happiness and were truly the light of her life. Her love and care will always be remembered and deeply missed.

Ava leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Hazel (David) McAlpine, Susan (Randy) Heilig, and Allen Gies; grandchildren, Andrew (Mikey) McAlpine, DJ (Megan) McAlpine, and Timothy (Alyssa) Heilig; great-grandchildren, Emma, Henry, Hunter, and Hollie; step-great-grandchildren, Alexis (London) and Levi; sister, May Deering; Goddaughters, Marilyn Harris, Patty Diebel, and Dawn Kosinski; many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Ava was preceded in death by four sisters and three brothers.

Ava’s funeral service will be on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Pigeon with Rev. Karen Bouverette officiating. The family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of her service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family.