Javier Segovia Serna

Javier S. Serna was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend. He died peacefully in the company of family after a 2.5-year battle with cancer on April 12, 2025. Born on October 10, 1953, in Monterrey, Mexico, he left behind a legacy of kindness and generosity. He was 71. He deeply loved his family and friends. Whether through his work, ministry or friendships, Javier made an impact that will always be remembered.

In 1972, he graduated from East Chicago Washington High, where he played football and baseball. He became the first among his entire extended family to get a college degree. He earned a business degree from Indiana University in Bloomington in 1976 before launching a 34-year career at FDIC, including work as an assistant regional director and recognition from the President’s Council on Y2K. Javier dedicated his life to God as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1984. While he enjoyed his work with FDIC, his passion and love were his spiritual career and serving God. He served the congregation as a trusted shepherd and full-time volunteer minister where he helped spearhead Public Cart Witnessing in South Haven, Mich., and aided with Local Design Construction for many projects in Indiana and Michigan.

Upon his retirement at age 55, Javier and the love of his life, Renette, moved from Palatine, Ill., where they raised their three kids, down to a lake home in Trafalgar, Ind. Later, they moved to South Haven, Mich., near the shores of Lake Michigan. Javier had a deep appreciation for the beauty of this planet. He loved spending time with family at cabins in the North Woods of Wisconsin, where extended family gathered and often fished on Rice Lake or floated canoes down the Namekagon River. He loved fishing with family and had a knack for always catching the big one, usually with a trusty black and yellow-striped Beetle Spin.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, his sons Javier Jr. (Sue), Arthur, and daughter Maren Swhear (Bryan), his brother Juan, sisters Hilda (Paul), Alicia (Edgar) and Rita, many nieces and nephews and countless friends who became like family. He was preceded in death by his dear and loving parents Jose and Hilda Serna and brother Arthur.

Javier will be remembered in the lives he touched and love he shared. Though he is no longer with us in person, Javier Serna’s loving spirit will be carried forward in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He is deeply missed and will never be forgotten.

To those who choose to leave a memory or condolence please visit www.starksfamilyfh.com Arrangements are entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services. 269-637-0333