Germaine M. Fitnich, 80, of St. Ignace, died Thursday, July 31, 2008, at Mackinac Straits Hospital Long Term Care in St. Ignace, following a two-year illness of cancer.

She was born in Detroit November 29, 1927, to Arthur and Leona (nee Dusong) Renotte.

She and her family came to St. Ignace in 1962, where they owned and operated the former Star Lite Motel until its sale around 1977.

Mrs. Fitnich then worked for Sewn Products for several years, later working in housekeeping and laundry at Dettman's Motel, which became Harbour Pointe Resort, before retiring at age 72.

An avid reader and animal lover, she also enjoyed crocheting, board games, and playing volleyball in the former St. Ignace women's league, as well as visiting the casino, especially on Thursdays.

Mrs. Fitnich is survived by a son and his family, David and Heather Fitnich of Henderson, Nevada, two daughters, Linda Clements and Carmen Briolat, both of St. Ignace, and two grandchildren and their families, Jason and Trisha Fitnich of Charlotte, and Rebecca and Scot Morrison of Ann Arbor. She is also survived by former daughters-in-law Dawn Akers of St. Ignace and Debbie Wiley of Howell.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, George, and a sister, Elizabeth.

A memorial service will be held later, with the date to be announced in The St. Ignace News.

Dodson Funeral Home of St. Ignace assisted the family with arrangements.