Theresa “Polly” McKenna

Theresa "Polly" McKenna, 82, of Gladwin, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, at her home, surrounded by loved ones, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on November 24, 1942, in Flint, to Theresa (Auer) and Morgan Hess, Polly's life was a testament to love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. On July 31, 1965, she married the love of her life, Robert "Bob" McKenna, the boy who lived next door. They were married at Gladwin Sacred Heart Church, embarking on a beautiful journey of partnership and family.

Polly's family was the center of her universe. She fondly spoke of the cherished memories created over decades at the nearby family farm, where laughter and love were abundant. She was happiest when she was surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren—Hannah, Nathan, Joshua, and Aiden. She was exceptionally caring and giving, always putting the needs of others before her own. Without question, she was happiest when she was with family, oftentimes relentlessly winning at the euchre table.

In addition to working at Bob’s Pontiac Buick, a family owned business, Polly was well-known in the community for her work at Gladwin Community Schools, where she was lovingly known to students as "Miss Polly". A woman of many talents, Polly was a skilled crocheter who created beautiful pieces with her hands. Her love for cooking and baking was legendary, particularly delicacies from her proud Hungarian heritage. During the holidays, she would bake pies of every conceivable flavor, ensuring everyone had their favorite. Her passion for family and giving was matched only by her affection for dogs, of which she had many throughout her life.

Polly was well known for her powerful hugs—strong, full-on embraces that left the recipient gasping for air, a physical representation of her boundless love. She was strong-willed, a trait that served her well and was admired by those who knew her.

Polly is preceded in death by her parents, Theresa and Morgan Hess; her sister, Dorothy Keen; her brother, Wallace Hess; her uncle (and father figure), Jim Auer; and her brother-in-law, Jim Bushong.

She is survived by her loving husband, Robert "Bob" McKenna; her daughter, Kimberly (Bruce) Smith of Lowell; her son, Patrick (Angie) McKenna of Gladwin; her four adoring grandchildren, Hannah, Nathan, Joshua, and Aiden; her nephew, Michael (Katie) Keen, and her great-nephew Charlie, whom she considered her fifth grandchild; her sister, Pat Bushong; her brother-in-law, Lenny Keen; her sister-in-law, Tress Hess; aunt, Bert Auer; and many other cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Polly will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love, kindness, and strength will forever live on in the hearts of her family.

Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Gladwin. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Visitation will also take place on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 from 2-8:00 P.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home in Gladwin. Following the service graveside services will take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Polly’s name to MyMichigan Health Foundation and MyMichigan Hospice. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com