Julia Anne Mugrage

Julia Anne Mugrage, born June 13, 1928, in Bloomington, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025, in Chandler, Arizona, at the age of 96. She was the beloved daughter of Julia (Walsh) Gehrt and Fred Gehrt.

A graduate of Normal High School, Julia married Donald Forrest Mugrage on December 20, 1947, in Bloomington, Illinois. Together, they built a life filled with love and family. Julia is survived by her five children: Kathy Nigohosian, Susan Immerzeel, Donald Mugrage Jr, Michael Mugrage, and Mark Mugrage. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren who will cherish her memory. Additionally, she is fondly remembered by her nieces and nephews and countless friends. 

Julia was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald Mugrage Sr; her three brothers, Fred, Stanley, and Daniel; her sister Marian (Gehrt) Wresinski; and her beloved granddaughter, Nicole Immerzeel.

Julia’s talents were as vast as her heart. She inherited her mother’s extraordinary skills in pie baking and clothing making—her Halloween costumes for her children were legendary. She shared her love of crafts with her daughters and was known as an unbeatable card player during family gatherings. Julia also enjoyed traveling with dear friends and her second husband, Rudy Nuss.

Throughout her life, Julia lived in several states, including Illinois; Westport, Connecticut; Thousand Oaks, California; and Sun Lakes, Arizona. Wherever she went, she brought light to those around her with her radiant smile and boundless kindness.

Julia’s legacy is one of love, creativity, and joy. Her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her. 

A Memorial Mass will take place on Monday, March 17, 2025 (St. Patrick’s Day) at 10:00 AM with a Rosary at 9:30 AM at St. Steven’s Catholic Church, 24827 S. Dobson Road, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248. A reception will follow the Memorial Mass.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Parkinson’s in Julia’s name: 
https://give.michaeljfox.org/give/421686/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=em_cidmc-a1bHq00000AeQZ0