Mrs. Erna Marie Kriigel, age 66, of Douglasville, Georgia passed away on Sunday, May 28, 2023. She was born in Grosse Pointe, Michigan on November 19, 1956. Erna was a beloved wife, mother, sister, and educator. With a thirst for knowledge and the calling to teach, she obtained two Masters of Education degrees focusing on Leadership and Online Learning. A strong believer in Christ, Erna was a member of Bethany Christian Church. She was a certified Christian coach and through this was able to help others navigate life changes and accomplish goals. A member of the Cherokee Rose Quilters Guild of Douglasville, Erna was a prolific quilter. She made quilts for each of her children’s weddings, her loved ones, and those in need, attaching a special bible verse to each quilt before gifting.
Erna and her husband, Carl, crossed paths and found love while working as park rangers at a Michigan state park. They were inseparable, and when Carl was called to serve in the United States Army, Erna accompanied him all over the world. Erna's deep love for her family was unwavering, and she always put their well-being and happiness above all else. She cherished their time spent together, whether it was creating beautiful memories during family outings or simply enjoying each other's company at home. She motivated them to strive for their goals and aspirations, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. Her absence will be deeply felt by all.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Erna F. Stebbins and a brother, Robert “Bobby” Stebbins.
Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 41 years, Carl Kriigel; her children: William Kriigel (Sarah), Jimmy Kriigel (Angela Hales), and Laurel Kriigel (Justin Patterson); 3 sisters: Elaine Testerman (Michael), Janet Stebbins, and Kathleen Cuddohy (John); 2 brothers: Andrew Stebbins (Sally) and Martin Stebbins; and her Bernese Mountain Dog, Toby.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, June 11, 2023 from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023 at 11:00 am in the Rosehaven Chapel with Brother Wayne Strickland officiating. For those unable to attend, a Livestream link will be provided under the services portion of her obituary page online. Following the service, Erna will be inurned at Rosehaven Cemetery.
Those who wish to express condolences or share a special memory may do so online at www.whitleygarner.com
Arrangements by: Whitley-Garner at Rosehaven Funeral Home, Douglasville, GA 30134, 770-942-4246
