Cecelia Filko

Ms. Cecelia Ann Filko, a lifelong resident of Lansing, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on September 20, 1956, Cecelia was the firstborn child of Joseph and Flavia Filko and the eldest of four siblings. Proud of her heritage, she and her siblings were raised in Lansing as second-generation Slavić.

Cecelia’s journey began at Immaculate Heart of Mary School and continued through Everett High School. Her formative years were defined by a spirited sense of adventure and a refusal to be confined by convention. A fearless and vibrant soul, Cecelia was a self-described "badass rebel" who delighted in breaking the rules and possessed an uncanny ability to be the bright spot in a bleak day. Her extensive travels and life experiences gifted her with a profound, worldly perspective. This depth allowed her to connect effortlessly with people from all walks of life, offering a unique understanding and empathy that became the hallmark of her phenomenal personality.

Her zest for life was perhaps best captured in her passion for skydiving; she took to the skies for several successful jumps, always returning to earth with a radiant, ear-to-ear smile. A true devotee of Rock n’ Roll, Cecelia was rarely seen without her signature style, beautifully adorned in "oodles" of her cherished silver jewelry.

Beyond her adventurous exterior lay a heart of deep devotion. She served as a dedicated caregiver for her mother until her passing, and subsequently cared for her father, "Zedo," until her own health concerns required her to step back.

Cecelia leaves to cherish her memory her father, Joseph Filko; her brother, Joseph (Patty) Filko; and her nieces, Autumn (Dapreesch) Scates, Merah (Andrew) Hebert, and Cassie (Brian) Venable. Her legacy lives on through her great-nieces, Chloe Scates and Sienna Eirosius; her great-nephews, Carter Scates and Andrés Hebert; and her beloved best friends, Sharon Jones and Sharon Churchill. She is also survived by many dear relatives and friends, including several cousins in Florida and Pennsylvania, and her cousin Beverly, with whom she shared a particularly special bond.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Flavia Filko, and her sisters, Cindie Filko and Mary Ann Venable.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Cecelia’s niece and nephew-in-love, Autumn and Dapreesch Scates, for opening their home and hearts to her, providing a sanctuary of love and family during her final year of life.