Michael Serna

Michael Scott Serna, 56, of Chattanooga, made his journey home to the arms of his Creator on Nov. 3, 2013, at 11:05 a.m. He was surrounded by the love of his wife and daughters at his home in Chattanooga. Mike was born May 15, 1957 in Los Angeles, Calif., to Marshall S. Serna and Elaine M. Schuetz. A Mescalero Apache-Gabrieleno Native American, Mike was an accomplished flutist, flute maker, songwriter, educator, poet, dancer and brother to all who knew him. Mike was a Veteran of the U.S. Army, 1975-76 Berlin Brigade. As a musician, Mike had many successful CD releases: 2004 "Clouds in The Pass"; 2006 "Music In My Soul"; 2009 "Warriors Last Breath" (which received a NAMMY nomination); and 2013 "Never Surrrender" with musician and brother Ace Bailey. Mike was the 2006 winner of The Musical Echoes Flute Competition, Ft. Walton Beach, FL. Mike was a Tennessee Eagle Award Recipient in 2006 and 2013. Mike often volunteered to perform for functions which benefitted children and the elderly, as well as other nonprofit causes. He also contributed to the 2004-2005 Rolling Thunder Veterans Wall documentary. A bright touching spirit, Mike touched the hearts of all whom he met. Mike is survived by his wife Judy Serna, of Chattanooga; daughters, Laela Serna, of Chickamauga Ga., and Adrianna Serna, of Rossville; father and stepmother Marshall (Tall Eagle) and Lauretta Serna, of Woodburn, Ore.; mother Elaine M. Schuetz, of Morongo Valley, Calif.; sisters Elizabeth Serna, Rebecca LoGiudice and Trish Serna-Carver; brothers Brian Bowman and Scott Serna; nieces Kesha Serna and Crystal Welden, as well as many other nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as special brothers Ace Bailey, Danny Green, Kirby McCloud, and Larry Wyatt, and adopted sister Michelle Wiggins and his sisters of Table C. Mike was preceded in death by brothers, Paul E Serna and Rick Serna. A small private celebration of Mikes life will be held soon at which time Mikes ashes will be scattered to soar with his brothers Paul and Rick. Details of a public life celebration will be announced at a later date. Mike will be sadly missed by his family, friends, the Native Nation and all who were touched by his music. He was Indigenous, a Husband, a Father, a Brother and an inspiration to all who met him. His legacy will long outlive our days upon this path, and his music will forever travel softly through the wind. Rest in peace sweet brother, our paths will cross again. Sharing again Mikes favorite quote... "I am but a hole in a flute, that the Divines breath blows through. Listen to this music" - Hafiz 1320-1389 Serenity Funeral Home, of Cleveland, Tenn. is in charge of arrangements.