Alvin P. Brinkman, age 84, of Aura passed away on Monday, Dec. 17, 2007 at Marquette General Hospital.
    He was born on Feb. 6, 1923 in Redridge, MI son of William and Emma (Mueller) Brinkman. He grew up in Redridge then went to a CC camp. Alvin was in the US Navy during WWII and was a "plank owner"; as he was upon the USS South Dakota for its entire commission. Alvin then entered the Merchant Marines. He worked in the Calumet & Hecla Mine, and then at the airport. In 1985 Alvin retired from Burrough's Corporation, now Unisys, after working there for 35 years. He married Carolyn Fay Otterbein on Dec. 24, 1980 in Livonia, MI. They moved to Aura in 1989. Alvin enjoyed the outdoors and hunting. His passion was stream fishing. He was also a pilot.
    He was a life member of the VFW Post 3897 in L'Anse, life member of the L'Anse Masonic Lodge #547 F & AM, and a member of the Eastern Star Maplewood Chapter in L'Anse.
   Surviving are his wife Carolyn of Aura; sons Michael Roger (Lori) Brinkman of Columbus, MI, David Bailey of Detroit, MI; three grandchildren, Chelsea and Andrew Bailey, and Sara Szilagy; nephew Earl (Charlotte) Brinkman of Houghton; many nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are his parents; four brothers, Andrew, Bill, Chester, Carl; five sisters, Violet, Elfrieda, Bertha, Lucille, and Lena.
   The funeral service was be held on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2007 at 3 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home. Rev. Scott William will officiate. Visitation will be from 1-3 p.m. at the funeral home. The Baraga County Area Veterans will conduct military rites at 1 p.m. under the direction of the American Legion Post 444 in Baraga; the L'Anse Masonic Lodge #547 F&AM will conduct a service at 2 p.m.; and the Eastern Star Maplewood Chapter 511 will conduct a service at 2:15 p.m. A luncheon and fellowship will follow in the Sharing Room at the funeral home hosted by the Aura Auxiliary. Burial will be in the spring in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Houghton.
   In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Michigan Kidney Foundation or the Beacon House in Marquette. The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.
   Friends may sign Alvin's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfunerahome.com

   ROSEMARY “Dutchie” SHULSTAD, 93, of Baraga passed away suddenly Thursday, Dec. 13, 2007 at home. She was born in Baraga, on May 22, 1914 the daughter of the late Peter A. and Rosalie (Robillard) Magnant. She graduated from Baraga High School in 1931. RoseMary married Herbert Shulstad at the Shrine of the Little Flower in Royal Oak, MI. He preceded her in death in 1994. She was employed by the public school system as a secretary until her retirement. She was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church, Baraga, Lady Foresters, Order of St. Francis, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and a former Altar Society member. RoseMary enjoyed playing cards, going to bingo, sewing, knitting and crocheting, and reading. She was an avid sports fan, particularly basketball and the Pistons. She was also active in church activities.
   Mrs. Shulstad is survived by her loving daughters, Pauline (Al) Goodreau of Baraga and Kathleen (Robert) Acton of Howell, MI., 14 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, several great-great grandchildren, and sister, Jeanne Lambert of Crandon, WI. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Rosalie Waara, brothers, Peter, Edward, and John, and sisters, Cecilia, Pauline, and Kathleen.
   A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 17, 2007 at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Baraga with Father George Maki, celebrant and Father Thomas Schmied, con-celebrant. Pallbearers were grandsons Pete, Tom, and Dale Goodreau, and John Waara, as well as grandson’s in law Derek, Edge, and Dean Osterman.
   Interment will take place in the Baraga cemetery. The family received friends on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse.
   Mrs. Shulstad's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net . Funeral arrangements for Mrs. Shulstad have been entrusted to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse.

   Catherine "Katie" Anne Johnson Parkila passed away Dec. 15, 2007 at the Maple Manor Nursing Center.
   She was born Sept 5. 1918 in Saskatchewan, Canada. Parents Anna & William Gauthier.
   Katie's mother died when she was five years old. She and two of her sisters went to reside in the Marquette County Orphanage for 7 years. She married Elmer "Ole" Johnson in 1935. They lived in Ontonagon and Dearborn, returning to Ontonagon in 1951. They had a son LeRoy Johnson and raised their niece Beverly Burke since the age of seven. Following Ole's death, Katie married Bill Parkila of Alston on June 30, 1990. Together they lived in Alston until 2003, when she moved to the Maple Manor Nursing Center in Ontonagon due to an extended illness.
Katie was an excellent homemaker, cook, avid reader and bowler. She worked at the Ontonagon Style Shop for several years. She and her husband Ole also managed the Ontonagon Country Club for 3 years.
   She was preceded in death by her husband Ole, in 1985, her son LeRoy in 1996, her sisters Margaret Finger, Mary Stang, and Ruth, and her brother Harold Gauthier.
   Katie is survived by her husband Bill Parkila, her granddaughter Ronda Atkins and grandson Jacob, her daughter Beverly and son-in-law Michael Burke, and their children Maureen, Sean, Brett, Heather. and Tim, and several great-grandchildren.
   A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, Dec. 21, 2007, at 11 a.m. at the Holy Family Catholic Church in Ontonagon. Friends may call at the Church one hour prior to the start of the service.
   The Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family.

   Mary "Sis" Kayramo, age 75, of L'Anse passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2007 at her home.
   She was born April 21, 1932 in Ahmeek, Michigan, daughter to the late Joseph and Leona (Dompier) Schutte. Mary grew up in Baraga and graduated from Baraga High School in 1950. She attended Northern Michigan University where she received her LPN. Mary married William in 1953 at St. Ann's in Baraga. She worked as an LPN at Winkler Nursing Home for over 35 years.
   Mary was a member of St. Ann's Church and the American Legion Post 444 Auxiliary in Baraga. She enjoyed playing cards, loved old movies, and liked the sauna. She was a caregiver and a volunteer. Mary was very caring toward her family and loved to feed them; she had unconditional love for them.
   Surviving are her son William (Sharri) Kayramo of Herman; son-in-law Paul Tesanovich of Herman; sister Carol (Fred) Ojala of Baraga; sisters-in-law Anne Schutte of Baraga and Helen Anderson of L'Anse; seven grandchildren, Sean Clements, Jalena and Vance Tesanovich, Tara, Tanya, Joseph, and Emily Kayramo; great grandson Easton Clements; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.
   Preceded in death are her husband William; daughter Julia Tesanovich on March 25, 2007; brother James Schutte and nephew Daniel Ojala. A funeral Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007 at 11 a.m. at St. Ann's Church in Baraga.
   Visitation was on Friday from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home with parish prayers recited at 7:30 p.m. and on Saturday one hour prior to the service at the church. Father Augustin George officiated.  Burial will take place in the spring in the Baraga Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Ann's Church. The Jacobson  Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.
   Friends may sign Mary's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfunerahome.com.

   Marvin E. Nurkala, age 77, a former resident of Michigamme, passed away Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007 at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans.
   Marvin was born March 7, 1930 in Matchwood, MI to the late August and Lempi (Santti) Nurkala. He grew up in Nestoria and was a graduate of Michigamme High School, class of 1949.
   Marvin enlisted in the US Air Force and served from 1951 to 1955. He worked for the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company in several of the local mines, retiring from the Empire Mine.
   Surviving are two sisters, Doris Maki of Waukegan, IL and Phyllis (Douglas) Luke of Gwinn, MI; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents, Marvin was also preceded in death by brothers, Carl and Albert Nurkala; sisters Florence Laakso, Viola, Shirley and Jean Nurkala.
   In honor of Marvin’s request, there will be no visitation or services. Burial will be in the Lakeview Cemetery in Michigamme. The Racine Funeral Chapel of Ishpeming is assisting the family with arrangements.

   Jeannette L. Hansen, 96, of Miami and former Covington resident, passed away Monday, Dec. 3, 2007 at St. Ann's Hospice in Miami, Fl. She had been in ill health for some time.

   She was born in Covington, MI. on Sept. 8, 1911 the daughter of the late Solomon and Sofia (Koivuniemi) Takala. She attended school in Covington and graduated from L'Anse High School Adult Education class in 1973, as valedictorian of her class. On April 10, 1950, she married Raymond Hansen and he preceded her in death in 1970. Jean had an interest and intellectual curiosity in a variety of areas including languages, homemaking, politics, and community affairs. She was the Avon Lady for years and active in the 4-H club. She worked as a housekeeper in Lake Forest, IL., planted trees for the Forestry Service and entertained locals with her harmonica.  She was fondly known as "Jean, the harmonica queen" She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Covington and a life member of the VFW auxiliary Covington Post 8945.

   Mrs. Hansen is survived by her children Ray (Debbie) Hansen of Las Cruces, N.M., Sarah (James) Moesch of Miami, FL., Victoria Hansen (Jamie) Markham of Knapp, WI.; Mary Salli of Iron Mountain, grandchildren, Barbara, Kenny, Mark, Chris, Debbie, Pauline, Jay, Jessica, Zachary, Rachelle, David, Rachael, Andrea, James Jr., and Nathan., sister Vienna Wimpari of Lakeworth, FL. Numerous great and great-great grandchildren also survive along with nieces, nephews, and other family members. She was preceded in death by son Ronnie ,daughter Marjorie, and grand son Michael, 2 brothers and 4 sisters.
   Funeral services for Mrs. Hansen were held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2007 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Covington with Pastor Mark Reinsch officiating. Spring interment will take place in the Covington Cemetery. The family received friends on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse from 6 until 8 p.m. and at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of service. Sunday evening a VFW Auxiliary service was held at 7 p.m. in the funeral chapel. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse was entrusted with arrangements. Mrs. Hansen's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfse.net

   Marvin E. Nurkala, age 77, a former resident of Michigamme, passed away Sunday, Nov. 9, 2007 at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans.
Marvin was born March 7, 1930 in Matchwood, MI to the late August and Lempi (Santti) Nurkala. He grew up in Nestoria and was a graduate of Michigamme High School, class of 1949.
   Marvin enlisted in the US Air Force and served from 1951 to 1955. He worked for the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company in several of the local mines, retiring from the Empire Mine.
   Surviving are two sisters, Doris Maki of Waukegan, IL and Phyllis (Douglas) Luke of Gwinn, MI; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents, Marvin was also preceded in death by brothers, Carl and Albert Nurkala; sisters Florence Laakso, Viola, Shirley and Jean Nurkala.
   In honor of Marvin’s request, there will be no visitation or services. Burial will be in the Lakeview Cemetery in Michigamme. The Racine Funeral Chapel of Ishpeming is assisting the family with arrangements.

   Marlyn Rae (Anderson) Hornick, 79, of Baraga, died peacefully, in her sleep, Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L’Anse, with her daughters and her beloved dog Otto at her side.
   She was born at her parents’ home in Whitewater, WI, on Aug. 30, 1928. She was the only child of Marie and Archie Anderson. She grew up in Whitewater and often reminisced of her happy childhood in this pleasant town. After high school, she and her parents moved to Hancock, MI. She wanted to attend Michigan Tech and pursue a degree in chemistry, but changed her major to Medical Technology. At the time this was a brand new program and she was only one of nine women enrolled in this field of study. She made lifelong friends there and often told the story of how she and her best friend “Pudge” would get in trouble for knitting during lectures. Her life changed when she met her physics lab partner, Jack Hornick, from Houghton. He was just out of the Navy and studying forestry. Although she talked of many suitors during her happy times at Tech, Jack was to be her “one true love”.
   They married on Oct. 14, 1951 in Houghton. She was disappointed with the proceedings as she wasn’t allowed to have any of her non-Catholic friends in the wedding, and there was no fancy wedding cake as the baker had gone fishing.
   They lived together in the U.P. for 19 years. Jack (Zeke) worked at his brother Charlie’s gas station in Houghton, taught at Tech, played baseball (pitcher) for extra money, and finally was hired by the Department of Agriculture as a forester. Marlyn stayed at home and raised their five children.
   Due to Jack’s job, the family moved around quite a bit. First to Park Falls, WI, then to a Job Corps Center in Clam Lake, WI. Springfield, PA, was the next stop, where Marlyn was also employed outside the home. She worked at Tri County Hospital in the lab and again made many dear friends. The family then again moved to Romansville, PA, to get out in the country where they had more room and could accommodate their daughter Nancy’s passion for horses. Jack was finally transferred to Washington DC. They had a lovely home in Stafford, VA, with enough land for the horses, dogs and various cats. Marlyn worked at a Hallmark Shop where she often remarked that the biggest crisis she might encounter was mixing the Get Well cards with the Birthday cards. She really enjoyed this job and the country life.
   After Jack’s retirement, they finally returned to the U.P. They bought a small house in Baraga right on the shores of Lake Superior (Marlyn had always wanted a swimming pool...). Here they could indulge their love of antiques, and refinishing old furniture. They set up the Country Shop on Jurmu Road, and enjoyed going to auctions and antique shows.
They also both loved playing bridge, square dancing, and traveling to visit their children and grandchildren. As Marlyn’s sight began to go, the antique shop eventually closed, but the many friends they both made during this time continued to be an important part of their lives. Her health continued to decline, and when her son John died in 2005, and Jack suddenly last March, she began to have more medical problems.
She was very strong and brave and stayed in her home until a week ago when she finally was taken to the hospital in failing health.
   She was a strong, opinionated woman with a great sense of humor and friendship. She loved duplicate bridge, Marty Robbins songs, her pets, antiques, white daisies, square dancing, “Survivor,” and all her many friends. She was an incredible mother, and a loving wife who worked very hard to keep the family together. She could pack up an entire houseful of things at a moment’s notice and move to wherever the Forest  Service took them. She enjoyed the adventure of living in a new place and making new friends. She will be sadly missed by those she left behind, but she will no longer suffer pain, her sight will be restored, and she will see John and her beloved Jack again.
   She is survived by her daughter Kathleen in Baraga, son Karl (Zina) Hornick in Wyoming, son Steve (Peggy) Hornick in Appleton, and daughter Nancy (Roman) Butterfield in Stevens Point, WI. Also, by her beloved grandchildren Nicole (and great-grandson Alex); Tom, Andy and Grace; Steve, Kati, Gina (great-grandson Rayne) and Jessie (great-grandson Skylar).
   The service was held at Reid Funeral Home in L’Anse on Monday Dec. 10, 2007. Visitation was held at 3 p.m. with services beginning at 4 p.m. with a reception to follow.

    Larry Dean Supanich, age 47, of Wendover, Utah and formerly of L'Anse passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, Monday, Dec. 3, 2007 leaving a world full of loved ones and family.
    Larry was born on Sept. 15, 1960 to Frank Jr. and Marcy Supanich and raised in the small Upper Peninsula town of L’Anse. After graduating from high school, Larry joined the United States Air Force and was assigned to unit #820 of the Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair squadron (Red Horse). During his four year stint in the Air Force, Larry helped to build runways in exotic places such as Egypt and was also brought to the desert border town of Wendover, Utah. In Wendover, Larry met his future wife Kerrie and eventually settled down there and raised a family to include two beautiful daughters, Allison and Morgan.
    Larry was a central figure in the community as an always smiling and friendly face at the town’s Utah post office. He worked for over 20 years for the United States Postal Service with many of those years as Post Master. Larry enjoyed the wide-open expanses of the desert and mountains surrounding Wendover. It was those expanses that brought him back to Utah after a brief return to his birth state to work as the post master in the town of Bark River, MI.
    Larry deeply cared for and loved his family. He also loved his “toys” including rebuilt old cars, off-road motorcycles, street motorcycles, and an assortment of valuable rifles and pistols. He cared for his toys as if he wanted them to last forever. He did the same with his close circle of longtime friends. Those fortunate to know and be touched by Larry’s presence will dearly miss his cheery attitude, infectious smile, dependability, and sense of adventure.
    Larry is survived by his loving family, wife Kerrie, daughters, Allison and Morgan, all of Wendover, Utah, his parents Frank Jr. and Marcy Supanich, siblings, Frank (Janet) Supanich, sisters, Deb (Dave) Perrow and Dawn Supanich and Kevin Kalliainen, of L’Anse. He was preceded in death by his infant brother Dale in 1956, and brother Gary in 1997.
    Funeral services for Larry will be held at noon Saturday Dec. 15, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, with the family greeting friends from 10 a.m. until time of service. Father George Maki will officiate and internment will be in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery.
   Military honors will be accorded in the funeral chapel at 11:30 a.m., under the direction of the America Legion Post 444, Baraga with Baraga area veterans attending. Following the services, friends are invited to join the family for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering Room, located in the funeral home.

   Margaret M. Ross, 84, of Baraga, passed away suddenly Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital. Margaret was born April 24, 1923 in L'Anse, daughter of the late Hector and Helen (DeCota) Morin. She attended school in L'Anse and later completed two years of college. She married Leonard Eugene Potter and he preceded her in death in 1962. She then married Dennis (Mike) Ross. He died in 1988. Margaret was a member of KBIC and active in numerous civic affairs. Including the tribal council. She was a strong believer in learning and education and taught for the L'Anse-Baraga Head Start program and later for the KBIC Head Start program. Her first love was the welfare of her family and their needs overshadowed all her other activities. She was an avid reader, loved to garden, and keep busy with civic interests.
   Margaret is survived by her loving family, sons James Potter of Baraga, Kenneth (Sandra) Potter of Everett, WA., Blaine (Karen Runvik) Ross of Baraga, daughter Robbie (Michael Cornelius) of Hancock, grandchildren Robert, Sean, Dakota, stepgrandchildren Tanya and Susie, stepdaughter Carole (Robert) Carlson and step-son Gene (Marilyn) Ross both of Baraga; step-grandchildren Roxanne Jackie (Zeke), Tammy, Murray and Nicole; sister Mary Walker of Baraga sister-in-law Darlene Morin of L'Anse. Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.
   A memorial funeral service for Margaret will be held Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2007 at 12 noon at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse. Judy Mattson will officiate. Friends may call from 11 a.m. until the service at noon. Follow-ing the service, friends are invited to fellowship and share a luncheon with the family at the Ojibwa Senior Citizens center in Baraga.
   In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family suggests memorial to Little Brothers Fiends of the Elderly or the Ojibwa Community library. Envelopes will be available at the funeral chapel. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Margaret's obituary may also be viewed and condolences offered at www.rfsc.net

   Robert F. Huot, 83, of Pelkie, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007 at the Veteran's Facility Hospital in Iron Mountain. He had been in failing health for some time. Bob was born in L'Anse Jan. 17, 1924, son of the late Joseph (Jack) and Lumena (Gamache) Huot. Bob attended the L'Anse School, and served in the U.S. Air Force during WWII He married the former Tiny (Etta Mae) Sipes Aug. 16, 1947. She died in 2000. Bob was employed as a dockworker in the trucking industry until his retirement. He was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a member of the L'Anse American Legion Post 144.
   Bob is survived by his children; son Robert C. (Penny) Huot, and daughter Paulette Huot (John Murphy); grandchildren Lisa, Leon Butts Jr., James Huot, Dale Huot, Tammy Larson and Joseph Huot. Also nephew Terri Huot, niece Perci Lee Kurtz Grandy and six great grandchildren survive. In addition, two sisters-in law Florence Kunick of Baraga and Luella Morvac of Wabeno, WI., several nieces and nephews also survive. Bob was preceded in death by a son James Edward, brother Cyrus Huot, former owner of Gamble's store in L'Anse, and Oralie Tousignant Kurtz, former owner of Oralie's Department Store in L'Anse.
   Graveside services will be scheduled in the Spring.
   Arrangements have been entrusted to the Reid Funeral Service, L'Anse. Friends may leave a message of condolence at www.rfsc.net.
   The family would like to thank Bob's nephew Roy Hakola, wife Tonni and their daughter Amber, Bob Hakola and wife Liz for the loving care they provided.

    Gerald John Connors, age 76 of Zeba passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2007 at the Baraga County Memorial Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit.
    Gerald was born on Sept. 22, 1931 in Odanah, Wisconsin son of the late Joseph and Julia (Barbano) Connors. He lived in Milwaukee for 50 years working for the Rose Company as a welder and then for the Alexian Village retirement community. Gerald married the former Mary Emery in 1970 in Zion, IL. In 1996 he retired and moved to Zeba.
    He was a member of the Most Holy Name of Jesus Church in Assinins, KBIC, and the Ojibwa Seniors. Gerald loved his dogs. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the long term care unit at the hospital.
    Surviving are his son, Patrick Connors of Chassell; brothers Joseph, James, and Michael Connors; sisters Barbara Connors, and Lorraine (Ken) Berger all of Milwaukee; several nieces and nephews.
    Preceding him in death is his wife Mary in 2001; brothers Bernard and Glenn Connors; sisters Helen Connors and Margaret Harbour.
    The funeral service will be held on Sunday, Dec. 2nd, at 3:30 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Father George Maki will officiate. Burial will be in the Indian Pinery Cemetery in the spring. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is assisting the family.
    Friends may sign Gerald's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

   Daphne M. Juntunen, age 82 of L'Anse died Sunday, Nov. 18, 2007 at Bayside Village in L'Anse.
   She was born on March 19, 1925 in Aston, England daughter to the late Thomas and Marion (Cole) Moss. Daphne came to the United States in 1946, returning to England in 1947 until 1971. She married Uljas August Juntunen in 1945 in England.
    Surviving are her children, Roger (Linda) Juntunen of Chassell, Nigel (Gail) Juntunen of L'Anse, Martin (Wendy) Juntunen of Ishpeming, Marian (Tom) Horter of Coopersville, MI, and Dawn Juntunen of L'Anse; 13 grandchildren; two great grandchildren; two sister-in-laws, Sylvia Moss and Joan Bird in Walsall, England; and cousin Pam (Jim) Morrow in Pennsylvania.
    Preceding her in death are her husband August in 1990; infant daughter Judith Helen in 1965; brothers, Anthony, Roger, and Michael.
    A memorial service will be held at a later date. Internment will be in the Ryecroft Cemetery in England. Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.
    Friends may sign Daphne's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com .

    Brian E. Gasperich, age 50 of Baraga died Sunday, Nov. 18, 2007 at Marquette General Hospital.
    Brian was born on Nov. 8, 1957 in Hancock, son to the late Ernest and Ramona (Johnson) Gasperich. He graduated from Hancock High School in 1975 where he enjoyed playing football and hockey. In 1977 he married the former Marguerite Duxbury in Hancock. Brian worked for Service Shop Cleaners until 1987 when he went to work for Ojibwa Casino as Assistant Cage Manager. He retired from there in 2002 due to health reasons.
    Brian liked Packer football, computers and any electrical gadgets, John Deere Tractors, Ford Diesel trucks, motorcycle riding, and gambling in Las Vegas. He was a very intelligent and inquisitive person. He loved his cats Lizzie and Shania.
    Surviving are his wife Marguerite Gasperich of Baraga; step mother Betty Gasperich of Ahmeek, MI; sisters Markay (Doug) Riippa of Grand Rapids, MI, Molly Gasperich of Colorado; special friend, Lynn (Randy) Haataja of L'Anse; nieces and nephews, Luke Simonson, Amanda Simonson, Emily Riippa; cousins, numerous friends and extended family members.
    A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 24 at 11 a.m. at Jacobson Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Rev. Bob White will officiate. Fellowship and lunch will follow the service in The Gathering Room at the funeral home. Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is assisting the family.
    Friends may sign Brian's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuenralhome.com.

    Stephen C. Baltic, age 93, of Escanaba passed away Saturday, Nov. 17, 2007 at Christian Park Health Care Center in Escanaba.
    He was born on February 7, 1914 in Wakefield, MI and was the son of Michael and Stana (Bobich) Baltic. He graduated from Wakefield High School in 1932 and then attended Northern Michigan University in Marquette and graduated with his teaching degree in 1937. While at Northern he lettered in three sports, football, basketball and track. He then attended the University of Michigan and received his Master’s Degree. Stephen served in the US Navy during WWII until he was honorably discharged.
    The former Dorothy Johnston married Stephen Baltic on Nov. 21, 1940. Stephen taught school in L’Anse and later in Escanaba serving as principal of the high school and then as business manager of the school until he retired in 1977. He was a member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, served on the church vestry, a member of the Golden K, and the Michigan Retired Teacher’s Association. Stephen and his wife Dorothy enjoyed square dancing and he was also a square dance caller at the dances. Stephen C. Baltic is survived by: wife, Dorothy; daughter, Betsy (Jon) Anderson of Rapid River; and son, Stephen A. Baltic. Four grandchildren, Kim (Bill) Brady, Eric (Amy) Anderson, Stephen (Tamara) Anderson and Kami (Joe) Harvey; eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews
    In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by one sister and two brothers.
    The family received friends on Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2007 at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Escanaba. Funeral services celebrating the life of Stephen C. Baltic were held on Tuesday at the St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church with Rev. Rayford Ray officiating. A luncheon followed the funeral services in the church fellowship hall.
The Anderson Funeral Home is assisting the family and online condolences can be sent to the family at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net

     Aimo J. Hulkkonen, age 86, of Nisula, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit.
     He was born on April 11, 1921 in Nisula, son of Henry and Hilda (Juntunen) Hulkkonen. Aimo attended the local schools. During WWII he served two and 1/2 years in the Army Air Force. As a tech sergeant he was a flight engineer on AB.24 Bomber's. Hulkkonen saw action in the South Pacific and participated in 45 combat missions.
     After the war he owned and operated the Hulkkonen Farm, a poultry and dairy operation, with his brothers, until retirement in 1997. He was best known as the "Egg Man" who would delivery eggs and fresh produce to the four county area. He married the former Ruth Kemppainen on Jan. 22, 1949 in Pelkie. Aimo's hobbies were photography, gardening, planting sunflowers and delivering flowers to share with people.
     Surviving are his children Charles (Judy) Hulkkonen of Nisula, Beverly Kunick of Hubbell, Lynne (Michael) Cadeau of L'Anse, Carmen Harden of Alston; brothers Arthur (Mildred) Hulkkonen of Kaleva, MI, Edward (Shirley) Hulkkonen of Nisula; sisters Sylvia Curtin of Lake Linden, Mildred Lampinen of Atlantic Mine; 12 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Preceding him in death are his parents; wife Ruth; son-in-laws James Harden and Dale Kunick; brothers Toivo, Gunnard, Urho, Weikko, and Sulo; sisters Helmi Hospenthal and Linda Pirhonen Wade.
     Visitation was held on Friday, Nov. 9 from 6-8 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home. The Baraga County Area Veterans conducted military rites at 7 p.m. under the direction of the American Legion Post 444. The funeral service was held on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Alston Apostolic Church in Alston. There was visitation one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Pallbearers were grandchildren Kenneth Hemmila Jr., Julie Hemmila, Chas, Jonathon, Zach, Tyler Hulkkonen, and Mike Cadeau. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is assisting the family.
     Friends may sign Aimo's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.

     Theodore G. Elmblad went to be with his Lord on Nov. 7, 2007 in Sweetwater, TN.
     Ted was born and raised in Skanee, the son of Danford and Anna (Peterson) Elmblad on Jan. 15, 1924. He graduated from L'Anse High School and Ferris University in Big Rapids, MI. He married Marie Treadeau on April 5, 1945 at Sacred Heart Church in L'Anse. He served in WWII as a Sergeant with the CIC in Japan. He retired from Michigan Cat after 26 years, in 1986.
     He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Marie; sons, Ted (Charlene) of Ludington; David (Sandy) of Cannonsburg, MI; Kyle (Barb) of Portage, MI; daughters, Melody (Charles) Gorton of Ravenna; Priscilla (Douglas Friend) of Wyoming, MI; and Mary Hooper, of Wyoming, MI. Seventeen grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Bernice Borgen, and Rita (Douglas) Brennan; brother, Clyde (Alice) all of L'Anse; numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly; and special sister-in-law, Myrtice McIntyre of L'Anse.
     He was preceded in death by his son, Danford and daughter, Patricia; grandsons, Aaron Gorton and Steven Elmblad.
     Mass of christian burial was held at Sacred Heart Church in L'Anse on Saturday, Nov. 17 with Father George Maki officiating. The rosary was recited at 10:30 a.m. followed by Mass at 11 a.m.
Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery in Wyoming, MI.

     Joseph O'Leary passed into eternity on Oct. 27, 2007, surrounded by his loving wife and family at his home in East Lansing, MI.
     Joseph O'Leary was born on July 11, 1927, in Lansing. He married Justine Helen Bollman on Nov. 17, 1956, and together they raised two sons and six daughters. Joseph worked for his father's business, Silver Lead Paint Company, owned and managed O'Leary Paint Store, and started O'Leary Real Estate in 1967, which he operated for nearly 40 years. He served on the Lansing Board of Realtors until 2001, was a long time board member and one-time President of Catholic Social Services, and for 11 years he managed all real estate for the Diocese of Lansing.
     Joseph O'Leary is survived by "Judy", his beloved wife of nearly 51 years, and by his children: Joseph P. (Betsy) O'Leary of Keweenaw Bay; Anne (Scott) O'Leary-Kelly of Fayetteville, AR; Eileen (Walter) Warthen of Parker, CO; Mary (Timothy) Ewals of Broomfield, CO; Sharon (Becky Chapin) O'Leary of Ann Arbor, MI; Joanne (Terry) Milarch of Fenton, MI; Colleen (Dana Munk) O'Leary of Grand Rapids, MI; Patrick (Jennifer) O'Leary of Franklin, MI; and 15 wonderful grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother David O'Leary, three other siblings and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
     He was laid to rest at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Lansing, near his parents Vincent and Genevieve O'Leary, and Judy's parents Karl and Hilda Bollman.

     Laura Genevieve Zeits, 91, of Baraga, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2007 at the Baraga County Memorial Hospital Skilled Nurs-ing Unit where she had been a resident for the past three years.
     Mrs. Zeits was born in Lake Leelanau, MI on July 21, 1916, the daughter of Simon and Isabelle (Plamondon) Hahnenberg. She graduated from St. Mary's Catholic School in Lake Leelanau and attended Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, MI. She married Frank Zeits on Dec. 2, 1939.
She was employed at the Leland Courthouse in the early years, and after relocating to the Detroit area also worked as an inspector at the bomber plant in Ypsilanti, MI, as a nurse aide, and in the finance department at Wayne County General Hospital. Laura and her family moved to Baraga in 1967. She was employed as a bookkeeping clerk for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in Baraga until her retirement in 1979 and spent her remaining years at home lovingly caring for her family. Laura's wonderful "green thumb" and her musical piano playing talents were always enjoyed by her family, friends and residents and staff of BCMH SNU.
     She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Frank, children Joyce (Larry) Doele of Saline, MI, Alan of Tucson, AZ, Linda (Daniel) Gilevich of Wayne, MI, Faye (Ray) Lozier of Baraga, and Frank (Nikki) of Champion, MI; siblings Cecelia Bussey of Dearborn, MI, Willard Hahnenberg of Paw Paw, MI and Rose Marie Schramski of Suttons Bay, MI, 10 grandchildren, nine step-grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Simon and Isabelle Hahnenberg, brothers Frederick, Loren, and Edward, and sister Rita Egeler.
     A memorial mass will be held on Monday, Nov. 12, at 11 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Baraga. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Fr. George Maki will officiate. The family requests that memorials may be made to the Activities Fund at BCMH Skilled Nursing Unit. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is in charge of arrangements.
     Friends may sign Laura's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.

     Melvin L. Norback, 66, of Covington, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2007, at the Covington Rest Home, where he had been a resident for a week.
     He was born in Watton, on Jan. 10, 1941, the son of the late Waino and Mildred (Petinen) Norback. He was an equipment operator for various logging companies in the area. Melvin married the former Bonnie Rolloff and she preceded him in death in 1980. He enjoyed pitching horseshoes, hunting, fishing, trapping, bowling, shooting pool and playing ball.
     Mr. Norback is survived by his son, Kevin Norback of Covington, grandson, Tim Norback of Covington, brothers, Gerald (Jean) Norback of Watton, Art (Sherry) Norback of Covington, Ray Norback of Covington, and sister, Jeanette Lepola of Covington, and Cy Davel his special friend of 22 years of Covington. Numerous other family members also survive.
     He was preceded in death by his son, Stuart, and his daughter Peggy in 1973, and his sister, Judy Norback Keene.
     A memorial service for Mr. Norback was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 2, 2007, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Covington with Pastor Mark Reinsch officiating. The family greeted friends at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.
     Mr. Norback’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net  The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, with arrangements.

     Anna Marie Heikkinen Huhtasaari went to be with the Lord on Oct. 31, 2007 peacefully at the Skilled Nursing Unit at BCMH with her family at her side.
     She was born on Dec. 23, 1914 in Askel, to Oscar and Jenny (Backman) Heikkinen. She married Arne Huhtasaari in May of 1932 and they celebrated 56 years of marriage until his passing in Sept. of 1988. They lived in Detroit for 20 years moving back in 1971 to Askel Hill were she since been life long residents.
     "Gramma Anna" will always be remembered for her laughter and her "polkas" at family events. She was incredibly independent well into her 80's. She was wonderful to her grandchildren (and their children) and her home was always the family gathering place where she showered her family with love. Anna enjoyed quilting, crocheting, flower gardening, and crafts. She was a member of Mission United Lutheran Church, Martha's Circle, and the Red Hats.
     Anna was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three sisters, Senia Huhtasaari, Trudy Fowler and Mae Siira, one brother Ben Heikkinen.
     She is lovingly remembered and survived by her sons Clarence Huhtasaari and Ken (Eva) Huhtasaari of Askel Hill, Michael (Phyllis) Huhtasaari of White Lake, MI and her daughter Shirley (Paul) Kezele of Southfield, MI, 12 grandchildren, 29 great grand children, and three great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by two loving sisters, Sylvia Pesola of Elo, and Elmi "Beda" Borro of Marquette, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Funeral services were held on Saturday, Nov. 3, at 1 p.m. at Mission United Lutheran Church in Pelkie. Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the church. Pastor John Autio will officiate. Burial will be in the Elo Cemetery. Her grandsons Jeffery, Ken, Doug, and Dennis Isaacson, Ken, Karl and Tim Huhtasaari will serve as pallbearers. The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.
     Friends may sign Anna's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     James P. McMullin Jr., age 85 of L'Anse passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital Skilled Nurse Unit.
     He was born on Aug. 14, 1922 in Bessemer, son of the late Jim and Janyce (Slosson) McMullin Sr. Jim was raised in Pequaming and graduated from Pequaming High School in 1942; where he was a basketball player. He was in the US Navy from October, 1942 to March, 1946 during WWII. He married the former Delores Lindberg on Jan. 2, 1946 in Minneapolis, MN. Jim worked for CCI from 1953 to 1987.
     They resided in L'Anse where his community contributions included his service on the Baraga county Federal Credit Union Board of Directors where he was past president for nine years; L'Anse school board of education for 16 years where he was past president and treasurer; former L'Anse Area Schools Athletic Director and was assistant hockey coach for the LHS Hornet team. His love for hockey was revealed as he coached the local Bantam and Midget teams to state championships. In 1994 he was selected as the L'Anse Area Schools Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient.
     He was a member of the L'Anse Baptist Church and the American Legion Post 144.
     Surviving are his wife Delores of L'Anse; children, James McMullin of Garland, TX, DeeDee (Walter) Payne of Flint, MI, John (Ann) McMullin of L'Anse, Barbara (John) Turpeinen of Alston, Victoria (Chad) Wierenga of Linden, MI; grandchildren, Jolie (Dave Jullian) Miller, John (Angela) Turpeinen, John (Melanie) McMullin, Jamie (Kelly) McMullin, Nicole (Nathan) Chylek, William (Shanna) McMullin, Joey (Holly) McMullin, Maria (Norm) Haataja, Jessica (Neil) Sandlin, Heidi Turpeinen, Britta (Jason) Grissom, Nathan (Tina Sanregret) Turpeinen, David Payne, Abigail Turpeinen, Jacob, Michael, Matthew, and Cayla Wierenga; 37 great grandchildren; aunt Audrey Johanson of Duluth, MN; four sisters-in-laws, Dorothy McMullin, Marlys McMullin, Elva McMullin, Edythe Falck; several cousins and 45 nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are his brothers, Thomas, John and Gerald McMullin; sisters Rhea St. Jacque, Elizabeth Klein; grandsons Scott and Chadwick Wierenga; and great granddaughter Jaycie Grissom.
     Visitation was held on Sunday, Oct. 28 from 4-8 p.m. at Jacobson Funeral Home. The funeral service was held on Monday at 11 a.m. at L'Anse Baptist Church with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Pastor Gerald Bishop officiated. Burial was in the Pequaming Cemetery. The Baraga County Area Veterans will be conducting military rites at the cemetery under the direction of the American Legion Post 444. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is assisting the family.
     Friends may sign Jim's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.

     Trevor W. Rajala, age 5, of Ishpeming, passed away suddenly Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007, at Bell Memorial Hospital, Ishpeming.
     He was born in Ishpeming on Sept. 30, 2002, the son of Wayne Rajala and Jolene Foy. Trevor was a brave little boy who in spite of his physical illness always had a smile on his face.
     Trevor is survived by his parents, Wayne Raj ala of Watton, and Jolene Foy of Ishpeming, brothers, Dan Rantanen of Ishpeming and Eric Rajala of Stevens Pte, WI and sister, Alexa Rajala of Pestigo, WI, paternal grandparents Leona and Francis Rajala of Watton, maternal grandparents, Jim Foy of Covington, and Helen Robillard of L’Anse. Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives also survive.
     Funeral services for Trevor will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, 2007, at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, with Pastor Jerry Bishop officiating. Interment will take place in the Covington Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral chapel on Thursday from 11 a.m. until time of the service. Following the service, the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and a luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, donations in Trevor’s memory may be directed to the family c/o Jolene Foy. Envelopes will be available at the funeral chapel or mailed to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, P.O. Box 81, L’Anse, MI. 49946. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with the arrangements.
     Trevor’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Philip K. Numinen, 74, of Michigamme, died Thursday morning, Oct. 18, 2007 at the DJ Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette.
Phil was born on Sept. 23, 1933 at Three Lakes to the late Earl and Hilma (Ketola) Numinen. He was a graduate of Northern Michigan University and held a master’s degree from the University of Michigan. While at NMU he played football, basketball and participated on the ski and track teams.
     Phil served his country in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954 in Japan.
     He began a long and distinguished career with the Michigan Department of Public Health in 1958. He moved through a variety of positions including with the United States Public Health Service in New York.
     In 1964 he began working with the Michigan Commission on Aging and was appointed to the White House Conference on Aging.
Phil was also employed at Northern Michigan University’s Employment Training Program as an Associate Professor of Health Education. In 1970 he returned to Lansing to work with the Department of Social Services from where he retired in 1989.
     He served on the American and Michigan Public Health Associations, the Michigan Society of Gerontology, where he served as secretary for ten years, and numerous other civic and local organizations, including the Elks, the VFW, Greenwood American Legion Post #114 and Lansing Masonic Lodge #33.
     Phil was presented with a House of Representatives Resolution #87 on March 22, 1989 on the occasion of his retirement from the State of Michigan.
      He was preceded in death by his wife of 31 years, Verna Johnson and also a brother, Donald Numinen.
     Survivors include three sons, Earl C. Numinen and his fiancée, Jennifer Cevigney of Michigamme, Karl (Karen) Numinen of Humboldt and Nickolas (Alicia) Numinen of L’Anse; also eight grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
     An open house to celebrate Phil’s life will take place on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Numinen camp on Lake Ruth. Members of Greenwood American Legion Post #114 will provide military honors and flag presentation at 2 p.m.
     Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.
     Phil’ obituary can also be viewed at www.canalefuneral.com  where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.
     The Canale-Tonella Funeral Home is assisting the family.

     Patricia Ann Wisniewski, 61, of Nashotah, WI. and former resident of Baraga, passed away Friday, Oct. 19, 2007, at Angels Grace Hospice in Oconomowoc, WI.
     She was born on Sept. 21, 1946 in Ishpeming, daughter of the late Gordon and Lillian (Pihlaja) Rock. Patricia was married to Carl Hendrickson and he preceded her in death. She married Gerald Wisniewski in L'Anse in 2003. Patricia had worked as a secretary at Michigan Tech University. She was a member of the L’Anse Girls Red Hat Society and a past member of A.A.A.P.F.
     Patricia will be remembered by those who knew her as a sweet soul who had a propensity for touching the hearts of those she met. Her love for life extended across a whole range of activities including, boating, gardening and especially painting. In addition, she had a passion for minerals and crystals, which were something that was part of her everyday life. Her zest for life and uplifting presence will be deeply missed by family and close friends. The number of which is considerable. She was an inspiration for many and will live in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
     Mrs. Wisniewski is survived by her loving husband, Gerald, son, Carl Ladd (Megan) Hendrickson, grandchildren, Makenna Maye, Nolan Ladd and Allyson Paige Hendrickson, and sisters, Betty Matz and Rita Burra.
     A memorial service honoring Mrs. Wisniewski will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Rev. Jeanette Ruusi officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral chapel on Saturday from 2 p.m. until time of the service.  Following the service, friends are invited to join the family for fellowship and a luncheon at Best Western Baraga Lakeside Inn.
      The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements. Mrs. Wisniewski's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.

     William "Butch" Heikkinen, age 79 of Keweenaw Bay passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Skilled Nurse Unit.
     He was born on July 23, 1928 in Atlantic Mine, MI son of William and Lillian (Matero) Heikkinen. Bill graduated from Jeffers High School in 1946 and Michigan Tech in 1961 with a degree in business. Bill was in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. He worked as a lumber inspector and then Foreman for Northern Hard-woods and Mead.
Bill was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Baraga. He enjoyed reading, gardening, hunting, fishing, making wood, berry picking, and dancing. He loved spending time with his kids and grandkids.
     Surviving are his wife Harriet of Baraga; children David (Candice) Heikkinen of Tapiola and their children Jason, Kelly, and Christina; Craig (Sherri) Heikkinen of Fort Worth, TX and their children Cati and Hailey; Cindy Heikkinen of Lincoln, California and her children Nicole and Terrence Gerard; Sue (Jim) Wilson of Baraga and their children Christine, Jennifer, and Tim; Robert (Mary Lou) Heikkinen of Marquette and their children Louis and Hailey; Paula (Tom) Rocco of Houghton and their children Jackie and Cassie.
     Preceded in death are his father William "Buppa" and mother Lillian "Kaija", son Peter, and brother Lee Roy "Doikes".
     Visitation was on Sunday from 5-7 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home. Baraga County Area Veterans conducted military rites at 6:30 p.m. under the direction of the American Legion Post 444. The funeral service was on Monday at 11 a.m. at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Baraga with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Rev. Ted Koehl officiated. Internment was in Keweenaw Bay Cemetery. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is assisting the family.
     Friends may sign Butch's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.

     Ruth "Sis" Sands, age 88 of L'Anse passed away on Friday, Oct. 11, 2007 at Marquette General Hospital.
     Sis was born on Dec. 7, 1918 in L'Anse daughter Euclid and Flora (Trudeau) LeDuc. She graduated Valedictorian of her class in 1936 from L'Anse High School. Sis attended St. Scholastica College in Duluth, MN for two years prior to entering the US Navy. She was in the US Navy from 1943-46. Sis married George Glen Sands on June 8, 1946 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. She worked as a secretary for 15 years, retiring in 1997.
     She was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in L'Anse and American Legion Post 144, and the WAVES.
     Surviving are her children Glen Patrick (Susan) Sands of DePere, WI; Gary Michael (Lisa) Sands of Marquette; William Peter (Karin) Sands of Green Bay, WI; Katherine Mary Marchi of Green Bay, WI; Mary Flora Sands of Cleveland, WI; Anne Therese (Steven) Koski of L'Anse; and Carol Marie (Mark) Emblad of St. Ignace, MI; sister Barbara LaBerge of Menominee; 20 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren.
     Preceded in death are her husband Glen Sands; sister Margaret Bergan; and son-in-law Mark Marchi.
     Visitation was on Sunday, Oct. 14 from 12-3 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home. The rosary was recited at 2 p.m. on Sunday. The funeral mass of Christian burial was on Monday, Oct. 15 at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church with visitation one hour prior to the service. Fr. Augustin George officiated. Burial was in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery where the Baraga County Area Veterans will be conducting military rites under the direction of the American Legion Post 444.
     In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the "New piano fund" at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in memory of Glen and Sis Sands.

     Onnie H. Nulu, 89, of Baraga, passed away Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007 at Shulstad Leisure Living in Baraga.
     He was born in Baraga on Feb. 28, 1918 son of the late John and Mary (Lampinen) Nulu. Onnie attended school in Baraga. He was a self-employed tool and die maker. His skill and talent was in demand and for a while had worked for Boeing Aircraft Company and Pettibone Corpora-tion. He preferred, however, to work in his own machine shop and work the family farm on Gristmill Road in Baraga. Onnie also enjoyed traveling, and liked animals, especially dogs.
     Mr. Nulu is survived by his sister, Esther Taurianen of Redford, MI., six nieces, and two nephews. He was preceded in death by sisters, Elma, Edna, and Eleanor, and brothers, John and Arthur.
     Funeral services for Mr. Nulu were held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Pastor John Autio officiating. Interment took place in the Pelkie Cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral chapel on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of the service. Memorials in Mr. Nulu's honor may be directed to the Copper Country Humane Society or Baraga County Home Care and Hospice.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements. Mr. Nulu's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net 

     Ruby M. Mannikko, 80, of Watton, passed away shortly after admittance Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2007, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L’Anse.
     She was born in Pickford, MI. on March 3, 1927 daughter of the late James and Ella (Rapson) Fountain. Ruby graduated from Pickford High School in 1945. She married Roy Mannikko on April 22, 1950 in Sault St. Marie, MI. Ruby was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Covington. She enjoyed cooking, canning, making crafts, sewing, crocheting and raising chickens.
     Mrs. Mannikko is survived by her loving husband, Roy, children, James (Candy) Mannikko of Painsdale, MI, Michael (Rebecca) Mannikko of Appleton, WI, Bruce (Shelly) Mannikko of Bay City, MI, Ellen (Kevin) Shultz of Rhinelander, WI, and Jill (Craig) Olesnevich of Stafford, VA, grandchildren, Donald, Corrine, Jaremy, Stephen, and Jacob, five great-grandchildren, sisters, Jean Wyllie of Los Angeles, and Wilma Lindbergh of San Francisco. Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive. She was preceded in death by two children, Donald, and Dale, two brothers, Raymond, and Glen, and four sisters, Margaret, Orma, Reva, and Glenda.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Mannikko were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, 2007, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Covington with Pastor Mark Reinsch officiating. Interment took place in the Covington Cemetery. The family received friends at the church on Saturday from noon until time of the service.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, has been entrusted with arrangements. Mrs. Mannikko’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to www.rfsc.net

     Impi I. Niemi, 84, of Pelkie passed away suddenly Thursday, Oct. 4, 2007, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
     She was born in Pelkie on Oct. 27, 1922 daughter of the late William and Hilma (Hamilianen) Lappala. Impi attended school in Pelkie. She married Paul Niemi in Hancock on Aug. 14, 1943. Together, they worked the farm, tending to dairy cattle and other farm animals. Mr. Niemi preceded her in death in 1982. In her leisure time, Impi loved to garden and care for her family.
     Mrs. Niemi is survived by her loving children, David (Cheryl) Niemi of Chassell, Raymond (Cindy) Niemi of Pelkie, Carol (Ken) Friess of Menominee, and Judith (Howard) Lister of Chassell, grandchildren, Krystal, Jason, Michael, Raymond Jr., Marcus, Pamela, Jenifer, Janice, Julie, Jessica, and Jon, great-grandchildren, David Price, Jaclyn, Jade, Jeffrey, Taylor, Justina, Jackson, Dylan, Paul, and Derrian, and her brother, Emil (Ethel) Lappala of Chassell. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Stacey in 2001.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Niemi were held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 8, 2007, at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Pastor John Autio officiating. Interment took place in the Askel Cemetery. The family greeted friends at the funeral chapel on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of the service. Following the service, the family invited friends to join them in a farewell reception and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room located at the funeral home.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, with arrangements. Mrs. Niemi’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.

     L. Edward Maki, 76, of Streamwood, IL, died Sept. 17, 2007.
Edward was born in Elo (Portage Township), MI, on March 28, 1931, son of Leonard and Sophia (Autio) Maki.
     He was a Korean war veteran and a member of AmVets Post 277, Streamwood, IL. He liked woodworking and really enjoyed telling jokes.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Ellen (Salo) formerly of L’Anse. His children, Karen Miller of Carpentersville, IL; Glen (Susan) Maki of Elgin, IL; Kim Maki of Elgin, IL; and Gene Maki of Columbus, OH. Grandchildren, Amanda Miller, Stephanie (Jason) Duncan, Richard Miller IV, Eric and Stephanie Maki; sister, Eleanor Dacko of Florida, Eugene and Edwin Maki of Elo, and G. Earl Maki of Owosso, MI.
     He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Ethel Haka.
     Funeral services were held Sept. 21, 2007. Burial was in Lakewood Memorial Park in Elgin, IL.

     Jesse James Jaukkuri, age 23, of Baraga, died Thursday evening Oct. 4, 2007 following a boating accident on the Portage Canal in Houghton.
     He was born in L'Anse on April 10, 1984 the son of Peter and Jo-Ann (Lamson) Jaukkuri. Jesse graduated from Baraga High School in 2002. He was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church, Baraga and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Jesse enjoyed playing video games, doing artistic drawing, and singing. He prided himself in using "correct" English. Jesse was a friend to all that knew him.
     Jesse is survived by his parents, Jo-Ann Jaukkuri of Baraga, and Peter Jaukkuri of Baraga, brothers Peter Jr., and Joseph, sisters, Danielle, Elizabeth, and Vikki, grandmother, Marge Giddings of Baraga, niece, Breonna and nephew, Jordin. Numerous cousins also survive.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Gary "Poncho" Giddings, paternal grandparents, Paul and Melvina Jaukkuri, and his great grandmother, Marie Kemppainen.
     A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, 2007 at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Baraga with Father George Maki, Celebrant. Interment will take place in the Assinins Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, Oct. 12, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. with a parish prayer service at 7 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse and for one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Saturday.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. Jesse's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Joseph “Jerry” LaJoye, age 85, of Royal Oak, formerly of Baraga, died on Aug. 23, 2007.
     He was the loving husband of the late Eleanor. Dearest father of Catherine (and the late John) Jump, Jean Jump, and Russ (Pam) LaJoye. Dear grandfather of Nikki, Tony, Brad, and Bryan and great grandfather of Ella and Shelby. He is also survived by his sister Helen (Pete) Malega and brother James LaJoye.
     He served in the US Army during WWII and belonged to the Baraga American Legion Post. He was a life member and Past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. He also enjoyed visiting the casinos whenever possible.
     Arrangements were through the Hopcroft Funeral Home, Madison Heights, MI. On line condolences can be sent to www.hopcroftfuneraldirectors.com

     Verna Hjordis Ellen Johnson, 69, of Ishpeming, died Saturday evening, Sept. 15, 2007 at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility in Ishpeming.
     Verna was born on Feb. 26, 1938 at Trout Creek to the late Walter and Saima (Helin) Johnson. She was a 1956 graduate of Ishpeming High School and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Northern Michigan University in Social Work.
     Verna also held a Master’s Degree in Public Health Adminis-tration from the University of Michigan, which she attained in 1978. She previously worked for the Michigan Department of Public Health in Lansing as the director of Crippled Children’s Services.
     Verna later moved to the Upper Peninsula where she worked with Bell Hospital as an administrator. After her retirement from Bell, she joined the Peace Corp., serving three years in the Phillipines. Upon her return from the Phillipines, she enrolled at NMU and attained a teaching certificate and served as a substitute teacher at Marquette County schools.
     Verna was an avid outdoors enthusiast where she enjoyed hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. She also enjoyed traveling.
     She is survived by Philip Numinen, her husband of 30 years, and their three sons, Earl C. Numinen and his fiancé, Jennifer Cevigney of Michigamme, Karl (Karen) Numinen of Humboldt and Nickolas (Alicia) Numinen of L’Anse; one sister, Sheila (Mike) Etelamaki of Bonita Springs, FL; also eight grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death besides her parents was a brother, Norman Johnson.
     A memorial service was held on Saturday, Sept. 22 at 11 a.m. in Bethel Lutheran Church, Ishpeming with the Rev. Lauri Maki officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Finlandia University, Hancock.
     Verna’s obituary can also be viewed at www.canalefuneral.com  where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.
     The Canale-Tonella Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

     Mary E. Richard, 61, of 2592 Werner Street, Marquette, entered eternal life Saturday evening, Sept. 15, 2007, at her home, in the comfort and loving care of her family and the caregivers of UP Home Health and Hospice.
     Mary was born on Feb. 14, 1946, in L’Anse, a daughter of John and Gladys (Liimatainen) Chaudier. She was raised in L’Anse, and upon high school graduation, enrolled at Northern Michigan University where she received an associate degree. On April 30, 1966, she married Allen A. Richard at St. Louis the King Catholic Church in Harvey and together the couple established their home and raised their family in Marquette. A stay at home mom, while her girls were young, Mary was voluntarily employed at several positions at St. Christopher’s Elementary School. At one point she worked part-time, for seven years at the office of Stephen Hyde, DDS as a receptionist. She was later employed at Northern Michigan University’s Bookstore, retiring in 2004 after 25 years of service. Mary was a member of St. Christopher Catholic Church and altar society, assisting at such parish functions as pasty sales, receptions, and funeral luncheons. In her leisure, she enjoyed following the activities of her grandsons, gardening, and loved going to the casino and garage sales.
     Mary is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, Allen; her loving daughters, Cassandra Leigh (Charles) Temple of Tiverton, RI, Suzanne Mary (Kenneth) Lancour of Marquette, and Beth Alexandria (Robert) Atkins of Kalamazoo. Also, the greatest joys in her life, the grandsons she adored; Allen Michael Lancour, Aaron James Lancour, Jacob Arthur Atkins, Wyatt Everett Atkins, and Shane Anthony Temple. Also surviving are brothers, John A. (Jacquelin) Chaudier of Ventura, CA, Joseph A. (Doris) Chaudier of L’Anse, David A. (Jean) Chaudier of Gwinn, William M. (Paige) Chaudier and Thomas G. (Karen) Chaudier both of Negaunee, and Frederick R. Chaudier of Nashville, TN; a sister-in-law, Faye Chaudier of Baraga; and a brother-in-law, Wayne Young of Negaunee; 25 nieces and nephews; and several great nieces and nephews.
     In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her very special grandson, Anthony Robert Atkins; her only sister, Marlene Young; and brothers, Dennis W. Chaudier and Durwyn J. Chaudier.
     Friends may call at St. Christopher Catholic Church on Wednesday, Sept. 19, beginning at 11 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Wednesday afternoon with Rev. Jeff Johnson as celebrant. Burial will be made in the Holy Cross Cemetery with family members serving as escorts. A reception for family and friends will be held in the church fellowship hall.
     The Fassbender Funeral Home is serving the family. Condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderfuneralhome.com

      Frances E. Henkes, 94, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007 at Sanford Foundation Hospice College in Sioux Falls, SD.
     On Jan. 12, 1943, Frances was united in marriage with Kermit Henkes in Peoria, IL. Following their marriage they lived in Jefferson, IA and Belle Vista, AR before moving to Sioux Falls in 1979.
     Grateful for having shared her life are her husband, Kermit; daughters, Ann Forster, Sioux Falls, Chris (Bill) Hertel, Alexandria, VA; two grandchildren, Jason Hertel, granddaughter, Julie Person and a great grandson, Connor Person; two sisters, two brothers; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents a sister, and two brothers.
     In accordance with her wishes, Frances has bequested her body to the University of South Dakota School of Medicine. Memorial services will be added at a later date. For obituary and on-line registry, visit www.millerfh.com

     Kermit Henkes, 98, of Sioux Falls, died Sunday, Sept. 9, 2007, at Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, SD.
     He was born on Dec. 8, 1908, to Charles and Nell (Anderson) Henkes at Galesburg, IL. He graduated from Peoria High School, and attended Bradley University.
     Kermit was united in marriage with Frances Elmblad on Jan. 12, 1943 in Peoria, IL. Following their marriage, they lived in Jefferson, IA from 1943 until 1972. After retiring as a manufacturing agent, they then moved to Belle Vista, AR before moving to Sioux Falls, SD in 1979.
     He was a member of the Morningstar Lodge #159 of Jefferson, IA; High Twelve Club in Sioux Falls and Peace Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls.
     Grateful for having shared his life are his daughters, Ann Forster, Sioux Falls, Chris (Bill) Hertel, Arlington, VA; two grandchildren, Jason Hertel, and Julie Person and a great grandson Connor Person.
     He was preceded in death by his wife Frances; parents; two infant grandchildren; and son-in-law Brad Forster.
     Private memorial services will be held at a later date. For obituary and on-line registry, visit www.millerfh.com

     Morris Fred "Buggs" Clish, Jr., 64, of 416 Michigan Avenue, Baraga, entered eternal life Friday evening, Sept. 7, 2007, at Marquette General Hospital.
     Buggs was born on June 24, 1943, in Mt Clemens, a son of Morris Fred and Elizabeth Margaret (Collins) Clish, Sr. He was a graduate of the East Detroit High School, class of 1962. For over 20 years, Buggs was employed as an over the road truck driver with the Overnight Company. He was a member of the L'Anse Eagles Club #2287, the Masonic Lodge, and a former member of the L'Anse Moose Lodge. In his leisure, he enjoyed following NASCAR.
     Survivors include his son, Wayne Clish of L'Anse; two grandchildren, Christopher and Alisha Clish of Warren; two sisters, Phyllis (Clyde) Akers of Avoca and Sally (Jim) Reich residing in Alabama; two brothers, Frederick (Jean) Clish of Warren and Paul Clish of Walled Lake. In addition to his parents, Buggs was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Mary in 1994; and by a brother, Leonard Clish in 2000.
     Honoring Buggs' request, no services will be scheduled. Inurnment will be made at Christian Memorial. Condolences may be express-ed online at www.fassbenderfuneralhome.com

     Louise M. Ferguson, 93, of L'Anse, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit. Her passing came after a lengthy illness.
     Louise was born in New Baden, IL, on Jan. 1, 1914, daughter of the late Charles and Margaret (Bedeau) Louwaerts. She resided in Detroit for many years and worked as a line operator for the Sanders Candy Company. Louise retired from Sanders in 1976 after 22 years of service. She married William Todd in Detroit in 1934. He preceded her in death in 1980. In 1993, Louise moved to Baraga to be with her daughter. She loved to be in the garden, enjoyed picking blueberries and spending time at Otter Lake.
     Mrs. Ferguson is survived by her loving daughter Peggy (Howard) Laitala of Baraga, six grandchildren Michael, Elaine, Dan, Linda, Edward, and Cheryl Laitala, step-grandchildren Elissa and Johnny, great-grandchildren Michael, Matthew, Ryan, Rory, Regan, and Easton. She was preceded in death by a daughter in 1953 and one brother.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Ferguson will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, 2007 at the Neely-Turowski Funeral Home, 30200 5 Mile Road, Livonia, MI. Interment will be in the Parkview Memorial Cemetery in Livonia.
     The family received friends in L'Anse on Monday, Sept. 10, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse, who has been entrusted with service arrangements. Mrs. Ferguson's obituary may also be viewed and condolences expressed to the family at www.frsc.net.

     Marilyn A. Corbiser, 62 of Gaylord died Saturday, Sept. 1, 2007.
     Marilyn was the daughter of Helen and Wilfred Carriere of Baraga. She was born in Ann Arbor on Feb. 7, 1945, raised in Baraga, and ultimately relocated to Gaylord in 1975. Over the years Marilyn had worked at the Gaylord Opportunity Center Resale Shop and the Otsego Club. She enjoyed helping care for her great granddaughter.
     Mrs. Corbiser is survived by her son Mark (Ann) Corbiser, her sister   Nelda Carrier, a sister in law Clayre Carriere, three grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, three nieces and a nephew.
     Mrs. Corbiser was preceded in death by her parents Helen and Wilfred Carriere of Baraga, and brother Russell Carriere.
     Friends may offer their condolences to the family through the Nelson Funeral Home, PO Box 1548, Gaylord MI 49734 or online at www.nelsonsfuneralhome.com 

     Margaret M. Archambeau, age 91 formerly of Baraga passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2007 at the Bishop Noa Home for Senior Citizens in Escanaba, MI where she had been residing since 1998.
     She was born on Oct. 10, 1915 in Baraga, daughter to the late George and Anna (Butala) Ellenich. Margaret attended school in Baraga. She married Leo Archambeau on May 2, 1933 in Baraga. Margaret had various jobs in the community. Margaret enjoyed playing cards, baking, cooking, and loved her grandchildren.
     She was a very active member of St. Ann's Catholic Church, the Altar Society and the Catholic Lady Foresters and served as St. Ann's Sacristan for many years.
     Surviving are her sons James (Patricia) Archambeau of Wells, MI, Russell (Donna) Archambeau of Gladstone; daughters Mary (George) Skuggen of Avon Lake, OH, Betty Jean (Russell) Barger of White Pine, Ann (Kermit) Larson of Gladstone; 12 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and three great great grandchildren.
     Preceded in death are her husband Leo in 1997; grandsons James and Robert Archambeau; sisters Rose Clisch and Angeline Wadaga; and six brothers.
     A mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, Aug. 31 at 11 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Baraga. Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the church. Fr. Tom Schmeid officiated. Burial was in the Baraga Cemetery. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is assisting the family.
     Friends may sign Margaret's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.

     Scott J. Van Abel, 41, of L'Anse passed away suddenly Sunday, Sept. 2, 2007 at his residence.
     He was born in L'Anse on June 27, 1966, the son of John C. and Patricia (Collins) Van Abel. Scott attended school in L'Anse and was a lifetime resident.
     He was a long time member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2287 in L'Anse. Scott was a skilled saw filer at Besse Forest Products Inc. in Baraga. He was an avid fan of NASCAR, and the Minnesota Vikings football team, loved animals, fishing, and camping at the mouth of the Huron. Scott was most comfortable when he was in the woods.
Scott is survived by his father John C. VanAbel of Calumet, his loving mother Patty VanAbel of L'Anse, sister Maureen VanAbel of L'Anse, his grandfather Paul VanAbel also of L'Anse, numerous aunts, uncles, three nephews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, paternal grandmother, one aunt and one uncle.
     A celebration of Scott's life will be held Friday, Sept. 7, 2007 at 5 p.m, at the Eagles Club on US 41 in L'Anse.
     Arrangements have been entrusted to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse, MI. Scott's obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     John Patrick "Jack" Marinich, 69, of L'Anse, passed away Saturday morning, Aug. 25, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital following a lengthy illness.
     Jack was born in L'Anse on Dec. 31, 1937, son of the late John and Agnes (Campeau) Marinich. Jack attended high school in L'Anse and was a 1956 graduate. He worked for a time at the Celotex plant, later for the old Chevrolet garage as a mechanic. Jack then was employed by the UP Power Company in 1970 until retiring in 1993. On June 18, 1960, he married the former Carol Richmond at the Sacred Heart Church in L'Anse. In his leisure time, Jack enjoyed woodworking, crafting items from cabinets to birdhouses. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
     Jack is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Carol, son Patrick John of L'Anse, and daughter Chris Ann Nelson of Tempe, AZ, brothers James Marinich and special friend Lynn of Ishpeming, Roger (Kathy) Marinich of Kingsford, MI, Lee Marinich and special friend Nancy of L'Anse. He is also survived by honorary grandchildren Emily and Johnny, brother-in-law Michael (Jaynie), many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Jack was preceded in death by his son David Michael in 1986.
     A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. on Tuesday Aug. 28, 2007 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Fr. Augustin George, celebrant. Interment will take place in L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends at the church Monday evening, Aug. 27, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. and on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the mass. A Knights of Columbus rosary service was held on Monday evening at 7:30 p.m. at the church. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family suggests memorials in Jack's honor to the Sacred Heart School.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel with arrangements. Jack's obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.rfsc.net

     Jack E. Lampsa, age 82 of L'Anse passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
     He was born on Nov. 10, 1924 in Osceola, MI son of the late John and Ellen (Matson) Lampsa. He grew up in Dollar Bay. Jack was in the US Army during WWII from March of 1943 to December 1945. After his time in the service he resided in Milwaukee for several years; moving to L'Anse in 1982.
     Jack enjoyed fishing, hunting, and was an avid sports fan. He was a life member of the VFW Post 3897, American Legion Post 144, and the Laborers Inter-national Union of North America Local 1329.
     Surviving is his brother Ray Lampsa of Vero Beach, FL; special friend Frances Brunet of L'Anse; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his brother James Lampsa.
     A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. at Jacobson Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Rev. Dean Franz will officiate. Fellowship and lunch will follow at the Sharing Room at the Jacobson Funeral Home.
     Burial will be in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery on Thursday, Aug. 30 at 11 a.m. with the Baraga County Area Veterans conducting military rites under the direction of American Legion Post 444.
     Friends may sign Jack's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com  The Jacobson Funeral Home of L'Anse is assisting the family.

     Bruce A. Budreau, 71 of Nisula, passed away Friday morning Aug. 17, 2007 at Marquette General Hospital following a brief illness.
     Bruce was born on Aug. 8, 1936 in Ann Arbor, MI., son of the late Percy and Helen (Adams) Budreau. He attended school in Chelsea, MI. He served his country and was a US Army veteran.
     Bruce moved to the Nisula area in 1976 and was employed as a bricklayer in the construction business until ill health forced his retirement in 1983. On Dec. 22, 1979, he married the former Joyce Maki in Chassell.
     Bruce was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in L'Anse and a member of the Bricklayers and Allied Crafts Union. Bruce was a person with numerous interests including motorcycles, fishing, cards, visiting the casino and rebuilding tractors. He had a deep love for his grandchildren, liked to plow snow in the winter and feed the birds in the summertime. Bruce had a unique sense of humor and was devoted to the care of his mother-in-law, Hilja Maki who survives.
     Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Joyce, son Larry (Jackie) of Baraga, daughter Carrie (Darin) Sikkila of Nisula, step-son Dan Seppanen of Massachusetts, step-daughters Linda Seppanen of L'Anse, Sue (Scott) Wagner of Houghton, and Debbie Seppanen and David Halsey of Bay City. His surviving grandchildren are Amber, Aaron, Austin, Zachary and Elliana. Also surviving is his brother William (Lois) of Chassell, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.  He was preceded in death by his children Melanie and Ricky and two sisters.
     Funeral services for Mr. Budreau will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2007 in the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel with Rev. Thomas F. Schmeid, officiating. Graveside services will take place in the Nisula Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. The family will greet friends at the funeral chapel on Tuesday evening from 6 until 8 p.m. and for one hour before the service on Wednesday. A parish prayer service will be held Tuesday at 6 p.m. Immediately following the service on Wednesday, the family invites friends to join them for a luncheon and fellowship in the Harrington Gathering Room, located at the funeral home.
    The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements. Mr. Budreau's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to www.rfsc.net.

     Glen Charles Pillsbury, 65, of 105 Ojibwa Trail, Harvey, entered eternal life Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 7, 2007, at Marquette General Hospital.
     Glen was born on Nov. 11, 1941, in Lansing, the son of Charles and Grace (Shaugen) Pillsbury. He was a graduate of Michigan Technological University, later working as a surveyor, and then as a machinist for the Parker-Hanifin Company. His hobbies and special interests included serving as a mail carrier for the Sault Tribe, fishing, camping, hunting, and bowling.
     Glen is survived by his wife of 43 years, Patricia (Loonsfoot) Pillsbury whom he married on May 28, 1965; his son, James (Marty) Pillsbury of Olney, IL; two grandchildren, Quentin and Tianna Marie Pillsbury; three sisters-in-law, Philomena Ekdahl and Agatha (Mike) Cardinal both of Baraga, and Lois Aldred of Harvey; three brothers-in-law, James (Pat) Loonsfoot and Gary Loonsfoot both of Baraga, and Kenneth Loonsfoot of Marquette; several nieces and nephews; and over the years Glen and Patricia were foster parents to 22 children. Glen was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Flossie.
     A memorial service was held at St. Peter Cathedral Friday, Aug. 10, at 12 p.m. with Rev. Frank Ricca officiating. The Fassbender Funeral Home is serving the family. Condolences may be express-ed online at www.fassbenderfuneralhome.com

      Otto N. Urpila, 89, of Covington, passed away Sunday, Aug. 12, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit following a lengthy illness.
     He was born in Paynesville, MI. on Feb. 25, 1918 son of the late Matt and Anna Urpila. Otto attended the Paynesville School and graduated from Kenton High School. He also attended welding school in downstate Michigan. Otto served in the US Army during WWII and was a decorated veteran. He married the former Lily Maki on May 11, 1946.
Otto worked for Wood Development in Sidnaw. He was then employed at CCI both in the Humboldt and Republic Mines and was maintenance foreman. He had been employed there for 27 years. Otto was also an instructor at the Mather A. Training Center. He had served on the Republic School board. Otto lived in Republic from 1954 to 1974 and then moved to Covington.
     He was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Covington and served on the church board. Otto was a former member of the Fire Department and Lions Club. He was past Commander of the Covington VFW Post #8945. Otto was an avid Tigers and Packers fan and enjoyed hunting, fishing and making mechanical things.
     Mr. Urpila is survived by his loving wife, Lily of 61 years, son James (Helen) Urpila of Keweenaw Bay, and brother, Robert Urpila of Kenton. He was preceded in death by brothers, Edwin and Jack, and sisters, Lila and Leah.
     Funeral services for Mr. Urpila will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Pastor Leslie Niemi officiating. Interment will take place in the Covington Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral chapel on Wednesday from 1 p.m. until time of the service. Baraga County Area Veterans will conduct military honors at the Covington Cemetery at 3 p.m. Following the interment a luncheon will be held at the Bethany Lutheran Church.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements. Mr. Urpila's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Keith E. Maki, 55, a resident of the Tapiola Road, Elo, died on Saturday, Aug. 11, 2007, at his home following a six month battle with cancer.
     He was born in Hancock, on July 7, 1952, a son of Donald and Shirley (Lantto) Maki and attended the John A. Doelle School in Tapiola.
     Keith was employed as a truck driver for 37 years. He was employed at Hocking Construc-tion Company, Superior Sand & Gravel and Burcar Construction. He was known as “Toivo” by his fellow trucking friends.
     Keith had a great sense of humor. He will be missed dearly, as will the telephone calls he made to his family and friends. Keith is survived by his mother and step father, Shirley and Loren Kommes of South Range; two brothers, Kevin (Lorie) Maki of Pelkie, Kim (Donna Kerry) Maki of Freda; five sisters, Patricia (Ron) Furtaw of Linwood, MI, Teresa Bishop of Elo, Mary (Jim) Knuuttila of South Range, Susan Harden (Jim Heikkinen) of L’Anse, Jennifer (Shawn) Nakkula of Hancock; a special friend who he called his big sister, Marianne Tepsa of Hancock; several aunts and uncles; nieces and nephews, Lucas and Jamie Bishop, Travis and Vanessa Furtaw, Laila Knuuttila, Joel, Lee Ann and Eric Maki, Samantha and Kenneth Maki, Autumn Joy Heikkinen; numerous cousins; and his companions and “kids”, Stewart Little and Pelkie Boy.
     Keith was preceded in death by his father, Donald; paternal grandparents, Arvid and Laila Maki; maternal grandparents, Edna and Arnold Lantto; two brothers, Kenneth and Kelly Maki; a nephew, Thomas Maki; and a brother-in-law, Jim Bishop.
     A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007, at Grace Free Lutheran Church in Pelkie, with Pastor Lou Jurva and Pastor Dean Franz to officiate. A luncheon will follow the service at the church. Burial will be in the Elo Cemetery. Arrangements are being handle by the Mountain View mortuary of South Range, Antila Funeral Service, Inc. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.antilafuneral.com

     Carol DeHut, 70, of Greenland passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Aug. 6, 2007, at Marquette General Hospital.
     She was born on Dec. 20 1936, in Manitowish Waters, WI. She graduated from Ewen High School in 1955. On Aug. 25, 1956 Carol married Eugene DeHut of Greenland. Just last year they celebrated their 50th anniversary with a trip to Las Vega.
     Carol enjoyed baking, casinos, bingo, Las Vegas, traveling, knitting, playing cards with the girls and her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
     She is survived by her husband, Eugene; children, Cheryl (Richard) Saari of Greenland, Jim (Judy) DeHut of Bessemer and Kim (Larry) Ross of Ontonagon; her grandchildren, Kristy (Troy) LaFernier of L’Anse, Jennifer (Matt) Derke of Madison, WI, Kelly (Dan) Wilcox of Pensacola, FL, Chris and Kory Ross of Ontonagon, Melissa DeHut of Ontonagon and Taylor Saari of Greenland. Also surviving are her great grandchildren Kori, Abby, Gracie, Les and Rylee.
     Funeral services were held on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2007, 2 p.m. at Cane Funeral Home with Pastor Rosemary DeHut officiating. Friends called from 1 p.m. until the time of the service. Burial took place in the Maple Grove Cemetery in Greenland. Friends may read Carol’s obituary and leave condolences at www.canefuneralhome.com

     George M. Edwardsen, age 73, of 10571 North Main Street, Rapid River, died Tuesday morning Aug. 7, 2007 at the St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba.
     George was born on Nov. 25, 1933, in L’Anse, the son of Morgan and Evelyn (Larmay) Edwardsen. George was raised in L’Anse and attended the L’Anse High School before relocating to Rhinelander, WI where he completed the last two years of his education at the Rhinelander High School.
     Following high school, George enlisted in the United States Airforce, serving during the Korean War Conflict, from 1952 to 1958 at the Lackland Airforce Base in Texas. George then returned to Skanee, where on July 4, 1959, he married the former Margaret Sands at the Sacred Heart Church, in L’Anse, eventually relocating in 1962 to Rapid River where they made their home and raised their family.
     Throughout his life, George worked as a salesman and in his later years as a chef at the Gladstone Golf Club. He was a member of the Gladstone American Legion August Mattson Post #71 and the Gladstone Men’s Pool League. George loved fishing, hunting and cooking wild game for family and friends.
     In addition to his loving wife of 48 years, Margaret, George leaves to survive: two sons: Bruce Edwardsen of Gladstone, MI and George (Shannon) Edwardsen of Rapid River, MI; two daughters: Shelly Williams of Gladstone, MI and Debra Norman of Gladstone, MI; two brothers: Charles Edwardsen and John (Helen) Edwardsen of Rhinelander, WI; one brother-in-law: Charles Mink of L’Anse.
Also surviving are nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
     George was preceded in death by his parents, Morgan and Evelyn and two sisters, Ann Mink and Shelly Edwardsen.
     Memorial graveside services celebrating the life of George M. Edwardsen have been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 18, 2007, at 2 p.m., at the Skanee Cemetery, in Skanee, with Judy Mattson of the Zion Lutheran Church officiating. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Edwardsen family with arrangements. For additional information, or to send the Edwardsen family an online personal message of condolence go to www.skradski-boycefuneralhomes.com

     Robert S. "Bob" Holma, 35, of Watton, passed away suddenly Saturday, Aug. 11, 2007 at his residence in Watton.
     He was born in Marquette, on Dec. 3, 1971 son of Marvin and Linda (Rajala) Holma. Bob graduated from L'Anse High School in 1990. He was employed at Connor Sport Courts in Amasa. Bob was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church, Covington. He was an excellent pitcher and played on the Baraga County and Iron County Softball Leagues. Bob was an avid Lions fan, loved to fish and hunt and liked to just "hang out" with his friends.
     Bob is survived by his parents, Marvin Holma of Watton and Linda Holma of Houghton, twin brother, John Holma of Iron River, and younger brother, Craig (Maura) Holma of Iron River, niece, Hannah, and his special friend, Amanda Weaver. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
     Funeral services for Bob will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Pastor Mark Reinsch officiating. Interment will take place in the Covington Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the funeral chapel on Thursday from noon until time of the service. Following the service the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse has been entrusted with arrangements. Bob's obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Paul Lawrence "Tutta" Almli, 94, of L'Anse, passed away Tuesday morning, July 31, 2007, at Bayside Village Nursing Center in L'Anse.
     He was born April 29, 1913, in Pequaming, a son of the late Christian and Nora (Nelson) Almli. Tutta attended the Pequaming and L'Anse High Schools and had been a lifelong area resident.
     On Oct. 17, 1936 he married the former Alice Louise Piper and she preceded him in death on Sept. 19, 1972. On May 2, 1975 he married the former Jean Auger and she preceded him in death on Mar. 4, 2002.
Tutta worked for 20 years on the Street Department as a supervisor for the Village of L'Anse retiring in 1978. He was the original owner of the Nite Owl Restaurant in L'Anse. Tutta also worked as a woodsman, carpenter, worked for the Federal Fish and Wildlife Department and owned and operated the L'Anse Shoe Shop.
     Tutta was a member of the United Lutheran Church in L'Anse. He was a member of the L'Anse Hockey Association and coached several teams. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and "story-telling".
     He is survived by a son, Biddle Almli of Aura; daughter, Alyce Seratti of L'Anse; sister, Norma Brown of L'Anse; five grandchildren, Jane (Buddy) Sweeney, Donna Ritter, Bart (Toni) Almli, Jerry (Julie) Seratti and Jeanine (Rich) Ernest; nine great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by seven siblings, Grace, Oscar, Ottomina, Edward, Annabelle, Dolly and Jean; a daughter-in-law, Janice Almli and son-in-law, Jerry Seratti.
     A memorial service was held on Saturday, Aug. 4, 2007 at 11 a.m. in the L'Anse Baptist Church with Pastor Dean Franz officiating. The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.
     Mr. Almli's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Dr. Charles John Hofbauer, 55 years old, of West Palm Beach, FL, died at his home on Monday, July 2, 2007.
     Dr. Hofbauer's medical practice in psychiatry spanned 20 years in Palm Beach County. During the course of his career in this area, he was with Lake Hospital, JFK Medical Center, Columbia Hospital, the Parent Child Center, the Palm Beach County School District, Indian Ridge School, and the Multilingual Psychotherapy Center.
     Charles was preceded in death by his father, Roland Hofbauer, and a brother, Robert Hofbauer. His is survived by his mother, Marilyn Auger Hofbauer of Ionia, MI; two brothers, Thomas Hofbauer of Orlando, FL and Gerald Hofbauer (Christine) of Marquette, MI; and two sisters, Linda Hofbauer (Ian McDonald) of Kincheloe, MI and Kristine Hofbauer of Ionia, MI. Additional survivors include three nieces, Courtney Hofbauer of Lansing, MI, Jeri Anderson (Chad) of Owosso, MI, and Nicole Hofbauer of Ionia, MI; four nephews, Justin Hofbauer of Lansing, MI, Tyler Hofbauer of Royal Oak, MI, Eric Hofbauer of Kincheloe, MI, and Bryan Hofbauer of Ionia, MI.
     A memorial service to celebrate the life of Charles will begin with visitation at 1 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 13, 2007, followed by a 2 p.m.  Memorial Service at the United Methodist Church, L'Anse, with the Rev. John Henry, Pastor, officiating.

     Winona R. “Mickey” Rilley, 88, of Baraga, passed away, Sunday evening, July 29, 2007, at Bayside Village Nursing Center in L’Anse.
She was born on Nov. 15, 1918, in Bonifas, Michigan, a daughter the late Benjamin and Kora (Galarno) Codd.
     Mickey was employed as a bartender for many years having worked at several taverns. She was a member of the Baraga Legion Auxiliary. Her leisure activities included trips to the casino and embroidery.
     Mickey is survived by two sons, Dennis (Brenda) Danielson of Crocker, MO and George (Kathy) Danielson of Baraga; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Clarence Danielson, Sr. and Arnie Wisenen; sons, Terry Wisenen and Clarence Danielson, Jr.; five sisters; two brothers; and a special friend, James St. Andre.
     A graveside service will be held in the Baraga Cemetery at a later date.
The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family. Ms. Rilley’s obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Gertrude A. Elmblad, 87, of Rochester, MN, formerly of Skanee, passed away on Tuesday morning, July 17, 2007, at her home following a lengthy illness.
     She was born on May 16, 1920, in Aura, a daughter of the late Matt and Sophia (Haapalehto) Toyras. She had been a resident of the Skanee area for most of her life. She had moved to Rochester to reside with her daughter the last 10 years.
     In December 1960 she married Kermit Elmblad and he preceded her in death in 1988. Gertrude was employed for several years as a cook with Winkler's Nursing Home in L'Anse and retired in 1988.
     She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Skanee and the WELCA ladies group. Gertrude enjoyed playing cards, trips to the casino, traveling and spending time with her grandchildren.
     She is survived by her sons, Clifford (Dorothy) Nankervis of Skanee, Philip (Barb) Nankervis of Skanee and James Nankervis of Ishpeming; daughters, Jane Elmblad of L'Anse, Rita (Roger) Erickson of Rochester, MN; step-daughters, Cathy Elmblad of Houghton, Gretchen (Nate) Taylor of The Villages, FL and Joan (Caleb) Atwood of Houston, TX; 19 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; siblings, Signe Koski of Aura, Sylvia Nelson of Skanee, Helvi Gornac of L'Anse, Matt (Rose Jean) Toyras of Aura and Helmer ( Pearl) Toyras of Aura; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two infant daughters; a granddaughter, Debbie Nankervis; sisters, Helga Fransiscovich, Hulda Kokko, Hilda Saari and Siiri Ollila and a son-in-law, Fred Elmblad.
     A funeral service was held on Saturday, July 21, 2007 at 11 a.m. in Zion Lutheran Church in Skanee with Pastor Judy Mattson officiating. Visitation was held for one hour prior to the service in the church. Interment was in the Skanee Cemetery.
     The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse assisted the family. Mrs. Elmblad's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Kenneth E. "Kenny" Leaf, 73, of L'Anse, passed away Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at his residence, following a lengthy illness.
     He was born in Covington, on Nov. 20, 1933 son of the late John and Fannie (Anderson) Leaf. Kenny attended school in Covington and graduated from L'Anse High School in 1951.
     He served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged in 1955. Kenny married the former Maryann Rolloff in Sidnaw, on June 20, 1964. He was employed as payroll clerk for the Baraga County Road Commission, retiring in 1999 following 32 years of service.
     Kenny was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church, Covington, and the L'Anse American Legion Post 144. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and watching softball and football.
     Mr. Leaf is survived by his loving wife, Maryann, children, Kenneth J. Leaf of Covington, Mike A. Leaf of Sidnaw, and Mark Leaf of L'Anse, grandchild, Kenneth J. Jr. of Bridgeville, DE, aunt, Emma Anderson, brother-in-law, Richard Rolloff, sister-in-law, Elvie Longrie, and special friends, Kandis and Christine Schroeder. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. His brothers, Paul, William, Roy, and sister Carolyn preceded him in death.
     Funeral services for Mr. Leaf were held at 1 p.m. Friday, July 20, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel with Pastor Judy Mattson officiating. Interment took place in the Covington Cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral chapel on Friday from noon until time of the service. The Baraga County Area Veterans, under the direction of the Baraga American Legion Post 444, conducted military honors at the funeral chapel at 1:30 p.m. Following the service, the family invited friends to join them for fellowship and a luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     The family entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel with arrangements. Mr. Leaf’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Martha Murtomaki Mikkola, 84, died on Wednesday, July 11, 2007, at the home of her daughter in Marietta, GA, after a lengthy illness. She was formally from Portage Entry, Chassell. She was born on May 4, 1923, the daughter of the late Andrew and Elena Murtomaki of Baraga.
     She was an accomplished pianist and sang at many church events while living in Baraga and Portage Entry.
     On Sept. 9, 1944, she married William Mikkola of Portage Entry. She was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of Chassell and the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Largo, FL.
     Surviving are her children William Mikkola of New Port Richey, FL,   John Mikkola of Largo, FL, and Jean Stark of Marietta, GA and her sister Jean Mikkola Miller of Hancock; six grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
     She is now gone to be with her husband William and son Robert who preceded her in death.

     Harry A. Hatara, 37, of St. Marys, GA passed away suddenly Thursday, July 19, 2007 at his residence in Georgia.
     He was born in Marquette, on Jan. 4, 1970 son of Pekka “Peter” and Marilyn (Tarvainen) Hatara. He attended school at Westwood School in Marquette and graduated from Amphitheater High School in Tucson, AZ.
     He was employed as a certified auto mechanic and was currently taking classes in computer design. Harry’s leisure activities included fishing, computers, and photography. He enjoyed spending time with his daughter and family and liked helping others.
     Mr. Hatara is survived by his loving daughter, Tuija Hatara of Georgia, his parents, Marilyn and Peter of Georgia, and brother, P.J. of Romulus, MI. Harry was preceded in death by his grandparents and several cousins.
     Funeral services for Mr. Hatara will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 25, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Pastor Mark Reinsch officiating. Interment will take place in the Covington Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral chapel on Wednesday from 1 p.m. until time of the service. Mr. Hatara’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net  The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

     Albert E. "Al" Heino, 88, of Baraga, passed away Sunday, July 22, 2007 at Bayside Village after a lengthy illness.
     He was born in Ishpeming on March 8, 1919 son of the late Elmer and Aina (Maki) Heino. Al attended Ishpeming Public Schools through eighth grade and graduated from L'Anse High School in 1938. He then attended and graduated from Suomi College (Finlandia) in 1952. Al earned a Bachelor of Science from Northern Michigan University and a Masters Degree from University of Michigan in 1960.
     He joined the US Army in May 1941 and was involved in the Pacific Theater Operations. Al married the former Wanda Sharp on April 11, 1960 in Shelbyville, TN. He was employed as a social studies and history teacher in Baraga and Two Rivers, WI. He returned to the UP as the principal of Mass City School and later the principal of the Baraga High School. He retired in 1985.
     Al had served as mayor of L'Anse, was a member of the L'Anse American Legion Post 144 and the L’Anse VFW. He was a former member and president of Baraga Lions Club, Kiwanis, the Copper Country Principals Roundtable and retired Teacher’s Association. Al was an avid reader, especially the Civil War and WWII studies, and enjoyed working on a variety of "projects".
     Mr. Heino is survived by his loving wife, Wanda, son, Jeffrey A. (Anne) Heino of Spread Eagle, WI, daughter, Lisa Lynn Meade of Miami, FL, three grandchildren, Abagail, Jared, and Samantha, and a brother, Rudy (Alice) Heino of St. Clair Shores, MI. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter Lori Ann, and his sister, Mavis Neva.
     Family services for Mr. Heino will be held at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse. Mr. Heino’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net. The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, with arrangements.

     Karen E. Voakes, age 55 of L'Anse passed away suddenly on Saturday, July 14, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
     She was born on March 6, 1952 in L'Anse, daughter to the late Octave and Grace (Bergerson) Paquet. Karen graduated from L'Anse High School in 1970. She married John Voakes Jr. on Aug. 26, 1972 in L'Anse. Karen attended Northern Michigan University where she got her LPN. She worked for many years at Baraga County Memorial Hospital and Winkler's Nursing Home. Karen then worked for Jacobson Funeral Home for several years.
     Karen loved spending time with her grandchildren. She enjoyed craft work and wood working. She was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church and the LA Red Hats.
     Surviving are her husband John of L'Anse; daughter Saundra Bolden of Cary, NC; sons Roger (Beth) Voakes of Columbus, OH, Michael (Alison) Voakes of New Baltimore, MI, Robert Voakes of Ann Arbor, MI; sister Sharon Wuollett of L'Anse; brother-in-law Keith (Diana) Voakes and sister-in-law Clara Grubb both of L'Anse; five grandchildren, Piper, Rory Grace, Megan, Annalyse, and Meredith; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
     The funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, July 18 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. Visitation was on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at Jacobson Funeral Home and Wednesday one hour prior to the service in the church. Parish prayers were recited at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday.      Burial was in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. Fr. Augustin George is officiating. The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.
Friends may sign Karen's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.

     Arvid M. Narhi, 92, of Pelkie, died Thursday, July 12, 2007, at his home in the house where he was born. He was born on July 6, 1915 in Pelkie, son of the late Henry and Hilda (Pasanen) Narhi.
     He served our country in the US Army as part of the Coast Guard Artillery Air Force during WWII in Australia and New Guinea. Arvid married the former Gladys Campbell on Jan. 26, 1946 in Chicago, IL; upon being married they moved to the Narhi family farm in Pelkie where they farmed together. Along with being a farmer Arvid was a saw filer for the local forestry products sawmills for many years.
     Arvid was a Life Member of the Alston VFW Post 7646 and a member of Copper Country Farm Bureau. He served on the Baraga Township Trustees for 16 years; Copper Country Dairy Board of Directors; and the Settlers Cooperative Dairy Board of Directors.
Preceding him in death is his wife, Gladys on June 15, 2004; son, Mickey; brothers, Wilho and Emil; sisters, Gertrude Syria, Martha Stanfield, and Hilda Taaffee.
     Arvid is survived by his children, Sally Narhi of Pelkie, Terry Narhi of Menominee, WI, Rae Marie (Michael) Klobucher of Engadine, MI; sister Siiri Bjerkness of Novi, MI; grandchildren A.J. Narhi of Pelkie, JoAnn Marie Klobucher and Michael Klobucher of Engadine, MI; and many cousins.
     The funeral service was held on Monday, July 16 at 11 a.m. at the Grace Free Lutheran Church in Pelkie; Pastor Dean Franz officiated. Visitation was on Sunday , July 15, from 6-8 p.m. at the Grace Free Lutheran Church and on Monday one hour prior to the service at the church. The Baraga County Area Veterans conducted military rites at 7 p.m. Sunday, under the direction of the American Legion Post 444. Burial was in the Pelkie Cemetery.
     Memorials may be made to Grace Free Lutheran Church or Baragaland Senior Citizens Center. The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.
     Friends may sign Arvid's guest book and send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.

     William "Bill" Taipalus, 71 passed away at his home on July 10, 2007.
He was born in Detroit on May 18, 1936 to the late William and Mae ( Waisanen ) Taipalus.
     Bill and his family moved to L'Anse in 1945 where he attended school and graduated in 1954.. He then enlisted in the army in 1958 and was honorably discharged after serving his country for four years. He later moved to Detroit to work for a Underground Construction Co until his retirement.
     Bill is survived by a daughter Lynn Dennert and a son Brandyn Taipalus. Grandchildren Kelley Dennert, Hayley Burns and Janae Burns. Three sisters, Joyce Nelson of Escanaba, Joan ( Jay ) Kotcher of Sterling Heights, Gloria ( Larry ) Klerkx of Traverse City and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Bill was preceded in death by his parents, a son William Taipalus, three sisters, Carol Taipalus, Ruth Kuhn, Dorthy Jarvey, and two brothers Robert Taipalus and Edward Taipalus.
     Graveside services will be held on July 28, 2007 at 11 a.m. at the Evergreen Cemetery in L'Anse.

     Gordon Eric Marttila, 76, of Lawrenceville, NJ, died on Monday, June 25, at the University Medical Center at Princeton after a long and courageous battle with mesothelioma.
     He is survived by his wife of 55 years, the former Eleanor Diener, by their three sons, Eric, Paul and Kurt, and by their seven grandchildren, Joshua, Zachary, Jessica, Andrew, Susannah, Teddy and Elizabeth.
He is also survived by sisters Martha Heikkinen and Eleanor Heinonen and brother Benjamin. He was preceded in death by sisters Irene, Ina and Helen, and brothers Jack, Paul and Lauri. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
     Son of the late Arthur Marttila and Adele Haapaniemi, hardy immigrants from Finland, he was born on May 17, 1931 in Hancock, the youngest of ten children. He attended Pelkie and Baraga public schools.
As a child and young man, he worked on the family farm before joining the United States Army in 1948. He met Eleanor at Valley Forge Army Hospital and they were married in October of 1951.
     Following his honorable discharge from the Army, he worked faithfully for 40 years as a measurement engineer and division manager at Transcontinental Pipeline (now a division of Williams). He taught many short courses on the natural gas industry before retiring in 1991.
He was a wonderful husband, supportive father and proud grandfather. He passed along his considerable love for the game of baseball to his sons and grandchildren. Over the years, he made many trips to Maine to enjoy a particularly beautiful place by the sea. He loved strong coffee, good food, and spending quality time with his family. He will be sorely missed.
     A memorial service was held on July 2, 2007, at Abiding Presence Lutheran Church, 2220 Pennington Riadm Ewing, NJ.
     Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to Dr. Daniel Sterman, Mesothelioma Research, at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 34th and Spruce Streets, Philadelphia, PA.

     Timothy Eugene "Mean Gene" Keohane, Sr., 87, of 421 Sunnybrook Lane, Beaver Grove, passed away Monday evening, July 2, 2007, at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans, in the company of loved ones. He had resided at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans for the past five years, receiving excellent care.
     Gene was born Sept. 5, 1919, in Detroit, son of Timothy R. and Sarah (McPhee) Keohane. For over 35 years, Gene owned and operated Nu-Cast Stone and Step Company in Redford. For 15 years, Mean Gene was the owner of the Lakeside Inn, a local bar and restaurant, especially known for their Friday Fish Fry. Gene was a decorated World War II veteran, having received two purple hearts and the bronze star.
     Not only was Gene a loving father, he had a great sense of humor and a very unique personality. He had an indelible impact on family, friends, customers, and virtually everyone that he met. He will be sadly missed.
     Survivors include four daughters, Patricia (Ray) Fischer of Redford, Mary Sue (Vern) Brannon of St. Mary's, OH, Margaret Ann (James) Quinn and Deborah (Mark) Holeva both of Livonia; a son, Timothy E. (Linda) Keohane, Jr. of L'Anse; nine grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and lifelong friend, Rhoda Johnson of Beaver Grove.  Gene was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Margaret in 1974.
Friends called at the Swanson-Lundquist Funeral Home on Thursday, July 5, from 5 to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, July 6, at 10 a.m. in St. Peter Cathedral with Rev. Francis Ricca as celebrant. A reception for family and friends followed in Cathedral Hall.
     Burial was in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield, on Monday, July 9, at 10 a.m.
     Condolences may be expressed online at www.swanson-lundquist.com

     Albert W. Spruce, 94, of Lansing, MI, formerly of L'Anse passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at Sparrow Health Center, Lansing following a lengthy illness.
     He was born in Baraga, on July 10, 1912 son of the late William and Elizabeth (Porter) Spruce. Albert attended school at Mt. Pleasant Indian School until the ninth grade, he then moved back to Baraga and graduated from Baraga High School.
     He was employed with the Oldsmobile division of General Motors in Lansing as a shipping clerk until his retirement. Albert's wife Gladys preceded him in death in 1995. He was a member of Zeba Indian Mission United Methodist Church, Zeba, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, and the Fond Du Lac Indian Community. Albert had been very active in sports when he was younger. He was a published author; having written a book entitled "The Early Years"
     Mr. Spruce is survived by his loving children, Betty (Carl) Dotts of Lansing, and Linda Austin of Flint, 11 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, many great great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews, stepchildren, step grandchildren and step great great grandchildren. Many extended family members also survive. He was preceded in death by one brother, and one sister.
     Funeral services for Mr. Spruce were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 7, 2007 at Zeba Indian Mission United Methodist Church, Zeba, MI with Pastor John Henry officiating. Interment took place in the Pinery Cemetery, L'Anse. The family received friends at the church on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of the service.
     Mr. Spruce’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

    Eleanor S. Kallio, 88, of L'Anse and formerly of Watton, passed away Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at Bayside Village, L'Anse, following a lengthy illness. She had been a resident there for two years.
     Eleanor was born in Covington on July 11, 1918 daughter of the late Jonas and Emma (Sailynkangas) Visuri. She attended school in Covington and graduated from Kenton High School in 1936. In 1943 she married William Kallio. He preceded her in death.
     Eleanor had worked for a time as a nanny in Chicago and was employed at Chrysler Motors in Detroit supporting the war effort. She was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church, the Covington Historical Society, and the Ladies Aid Society. Eleanor enjoyed gardening, reading, doing handiwork and traveling.
     Mrs. Kallio is survived by her nephew, Richard Autio of Milwaukee, WI, nieces, Betty Perkins of L'Anse, Elsie Felix of Dearborn Heights, MI, Shirley Borg, Negaunee, Jean Lasker and Marlene Orchard of Covington. Her cousins in Finland also survive. She was preceded in death by nine brothers and sisters.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Kallio were held at 1 p.m. Monday, July 9, 2007 at Bethany Lutheran Church, Covington, with Pastor Marlin E. Snyder officiating. Interment took place in the Covington Cemetery. The family greeted friends at the church on Monday from noon until time of the service. Memorials in Mrs. Kallio's honor may be directed to the Bethany Lutheran Church fund. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse has been entrusted with arrangements.
     Mrs. Kallio's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.

     Louise M. Osterman, beloved Wife, Mother and Grandmother, died Tuesday, July 3, 2007, at her home in Pasadena, CA.
     Daughter of Mary (Terteling) Pomrenke and Louis Pomrenke, she was born on Nov. 7, 1934 in Trenton, MI. Louise attended the University of Detroit, and taught in Catholic elementary schools in Michigan and California, including Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary School in Pasadena.
     A parishioner since 1963, she worked closely with the late Monsignor Timothy Crean as President of the Women's Council and Thrift Shop Chairman. She also served on the Executive Board of the Archdiocese Women's Council, and was an active supporter of Journey House in Pasadena.
     Louise also served in local, regional and national campaign and legislative positions including past president of the Pasadena Republican Club and East Pasadena Republican Women, and chairmanships for the California and National Federa-tions of Republican Women.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Russell J. Osterman, sister Lillian (Pomrenke) Crock of Trenton, MI, daughter, Mary Jo Scamperle of Phoenix, AZ, sons Peter R. Osterman of Seattle, WA and Paul J. Osterman of Queen Creek, AZ, their spouses and her eight grandchildren.
     Funeral Mass was at Assumption of the BVM Church in Pasadena.  Burial followed at San Gabriel Cemetery, San Gabriel. Memorial gifts are being accepted by St. Maximilian Kolbe School, PO Box 15685, Phoenix, AZ 85060.

     Kathryn A. "Kathy" Cavanaugh, 48, of L'Anse passed away suddenly Thursday, July 5, 2007, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L'Anse.
She was born in L'Anse on Dec. 20, 1958 daughter of the late Robert and Patricia (Connor) Kemppainen. Kathy graduated from L'Anse High School in 1977. She married Charles "Chuck" Cavanaugh in L'Anse on Sept. 6, 1986.
     Kathy worked as a project clerk for the National Park Service on Isle Royal for 10 years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse and taught religious classes at the church. Kathy enjoyed reading, traveling, outdoors, family, and rides in the woods. She loved her two faithful companions, Buckets and Sophie.
Mrs. Cavanaugh is survived by her loving husband, Charles, children, Christopher and Daniel both of L'Anse, brothers, Robert (Dawn) Kemppainen of L'Anse, and Ronald Kemppainen of Grand Rapids, sisters, Patricia (William) Tembreull of Arnheim, Mary Grondin of L'Anse, and Rebecca Smith of L'Anse. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Cavanaugh were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Father George Maki officiating. Interment took place in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral chapel on Monday, July 9, 2007 from 5 to 8 p.m and for one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Monday evening a parish prayer service was held in the funeral chapel at 7 p.m.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements.
     Kathy's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Irene D. Collins, age 83, of L’Anse, was born into Eternal Life on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at Waukesha Memorial Hospital, Waukesha, WI.
     She was born on Sept. 13, 1923 in Stambaugh, MI. The daughter of the late William and Bertha (Ziebarth) Heisel attended the Stambaugh Schools, graduating with the Class of 1941.
     She married Clarence Abrahamson in 1944, and he preceded her in death in 1960. In 1962, she married Edward Benson, and he preceded her in death in 1968.
     Irene married James Collins in 1987 at L'Anse, where the couple made their home. She was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers, and University of Michigan Wolverines. She also enjoyed dancing.
     She was also preceded in death by her son, Wayne Benson and two brothers, Walter and Albert Heisel.
     She is survived by her husband, James; one son, Kenneth (Carol) Abrahamson of Sussex, WI; two daughters, Judy (Jim) Heikkila of Cary, NC, and Sally Nelson of New Berlin, WI; a daughter-in-law, Julie Benson of Alpena, MI; seven grandchildren, Steven Heikkila of Portland, OR, Jeremy Heikkila of Cary, NC, Michael (Carla) Gill of Mansfield, TX, B. J. Nelson of New Berlin, WI, Kelly (Dan) Starr of Greenfield, WI, and Erin and Justin Benson of Alpena, MI. Also surviving are four great grandchildren; one brother, Martin Heisel of Iron River, MI; two sisters, Lucille Benson of Caspian, MI and Emma Abrahamson of Caspian, MI; four step-sons, Terry (Wendy) Collins of Ironwood, MI, Jim (Chris) Collins of L'Anse, MI, Tom (Sue) Collins of Skanee, MI, and Bill (Alice) Collins of Rudyard, MI; thirteen step-grandchildren and eight step-great grandchildren
     Visitation was on Sunday, July 1, 2007 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron River. Funeral services were on Monday, July 2, 2007 at 11 a.m. at St. Peter's Lutheran Church of Iron River with Pastor Joel Fleischer officiating. Interment was in Stambaugh Cemetery, Iron River.
     The family suggests memorials to St. Peter's Lutheran Church of Iron River. Condolences may be expressed to the family of Irene Collins online at www.jacobsfuneralhomeir.com
     Funeral arrangements by the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River.

    Lucille B. Deakins, 65, a resident of the Creamery Court Apt., Chassell, passed away Saturday June 30, 2007, at Bayside Village in L’Anse where she had been a resident patient for the past three days.
She was born on June 5, 1942, in Detroit, a daughter of the late Victor and Vera (Sauvola) Ketola. As a child she attended and graduated from Redford High School.
    On July 27, 1961, she was united in marriage to Richard Deakins and after 11 years they divorced.
     Lucille was a member of the Chassell Apostolic Lutheran Church.
Preceding her in death were two children Luke and John and her parents.
     Surviving are her children, Matthew Deakins of Marquette; Mark Deakins of Vancouver, WA; Jeffery (Eileen) Deakins of Sophia, NC and their children, Alex, Avery, Hannah, and Elias; Marlene (Gary) LaPlante of L’Anse, and their children, Bradley, Trevor, Tylor, and Cooper. Sisters, Virginia (Edward) Kleimola of Ironwood; Carol Ketola of Baraga ; Joyce Ketola of Chassell; and Elaine (Eric) Olson of Rindge, NH. Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.
     Funeral services for Lucille will be 1 p.m. Thursday July 5, 2007, at the Chassell Apostolic Lutheran Church with Don Holombo and Walter Ketola to officiate. Burial will be in the Chassell Cemetery.
     Friends may call on Thursday July 5, 2007 from noon until time of services at the Church.
    The Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Chassell has been assisting the family with the arrangements.
    To view Lucille’s obituary or to send a condolence to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net  .

     Gloria Elaine Lepola, of Troy, MI, died of cancer on June 29, 2007.
Gloria was born on June 12, 1940 to Elma (Friberg) and Emil Lepola. She grew up in Watton, and graduated from L’Anse High School in 1958.
     She received her BSN in Nursing from St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Marquette. She received a Masters Degree in Nursing and a Masters Degree in Sociology from the University of Detroit. She worked as a Director of Nursing for 10 years and then went into case management.
Gloria was a very active member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Troy.
     She is survived by two nieces, Marcia Johnson and Linda McGlue; and two nephews, Jon Hutula and Steve Erickson, and many loving grand nieces, grand nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Dorothy Hutula and James Erickson Sr., and two nephews, Philip Hutula and James Erickson Jr.
     Graveside services will be held on Saturday, July 7, 2007 at the Covington Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Covington, MI.

     William P. “Billy” Gabe, 55, of L’Anse passed away suddenly Saturday, June 30, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L’Anse.
     He was born in Laurium, on June 1, 1952 son of the late Joseph A. and Nestelle (Brunet) Gabe. Bill graduated from L’Anse High School and then attended Suomi College and Michigan Tech University. He was employed as a machinist for Pettibone Corporation in Baraga until his retirement. Following retirement, Billy worked as a bartender for the VFW Club and George’s Tavern in L’Anse where he made many friends who will miss him greatly. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse and the Knights of Columbus. Bill loved the Green Bay Packers football team and enjoyed playing cribbage with his friends.
     Billy is survived by his brother, Joseph (Bette) Gabe of Skanee, nephews, Joseph and James and nieces, Christie, and Sara, grand nieces and nephews, Brenna, Vincent, Gabe, Mallory, Alex, Jake, and Lauren, and sister-in-law, Katie. A host of friends also survive.
     He was preceded in death by his brother, James.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, July 6, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse with Father George Maki, celebrant. Interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 5, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse from 6 until 8 p.m. and at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until time of the Mass. Thursday evening a parish prayer service will be held in the funeral chapel at 7 p.m. followed by a Knights of Columbus service at 7:30 p.m. The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with arrangements.
     Mr. Gabe’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Randal “Sonny Bono” Kilpela, who was born on Nov. 27, 1957, passed away on Friday morning, June 29, 2007 at Bayside Village in L’Anse.
     He was the son of the late George Kilpela. He is survived by two sons, Randal Jr., and Dillon Kilpela; one daughter, Jessica Kilpela; his mother, Esther of Elo; three brothers, Mike of Mass City, George (Sandra) Painesdale, and Charlie of Elo; a sister, Lynn “Sissy” (George) DeRosier of Painesdale; and by several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
     There will be no visitation and he will be cremated at his request. The O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements.

     Toivo Wilbert Koskinen, 81, St. Marys, died Monday, May 28, 2007, at his home.
     He was born on June 21, 1925 in L’Anse, the son of Charles John and Hulda Kivilahde Koskinen. He grew up in Michigan and attended school there. Mr. Koskinen served in the United States Air Force.
He worked for General Motors for many years as a draftsman retiring in 1979. He and his family move to the St. Marys community that same year. Mr. Koskinen was a member of the Assumption Chapel in St. Marys.
     On May 13, 1950 he was united in marriage to Darlene Hanna in Detroit. She survives of the home.
     Other survivors include three daughters, Elizabeth Sullivan, South Lyon, MI, Caroline Perry and Catherine Isermann both of St. Marys; six sons, William Koskinen, Chelsea, TX, John Koskinen, Detroit, Richard Koskinen, Morrison, CO, James Koskinen, Chelsea OK, Charles Koskinen and David Koskinen both of St. Marys; two sisters, Ellen Raymond, Baraga and Eva Kakkuri; two brothers, Wayne Koskinen, Detroit, and Rev. William Koskinen, Sterling Heights, MI; 43 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
     Requiem Mass was Friday, June 1, 2007, at Assumption Chapel. Interment was in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery, St. Marys.
     Mr. Koskinen lied in state from noon until 4 p.m., Thursday, May 31, 2007, at the family home. The rosary was recited at 6 p.m., Thursday at Assumption Chapel

     Mary T. Tiura, died in Royal Oak on June 18, 2007 at age 89.
Mary was born in Baraga on April 8, 1918 and resided in Pelkie. After graduating from Baraga High School she attended Suomi College and then moved to the Detroit area. She married Frans Rudolph Tiura on May 1, 1943.
     She and her husband were charter members of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Southfield and the Finnish Center Association. Mary remained a very devoted and active volunteer at both the church and the Finnish Center, even while working as a secretary for various employers.
She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Tiura and son, Robert (Karen) Tiura. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frans Rudolph Tiura, her parents, Jacob and Anna Keranen, and her siblings, Verna Kautto, Lauri, Paul, Matt, William, Michael Keranen and Martha Strong.
     Funeral services were held Thursday 11 a.m. at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Southfield. Visitation was Wednesday 2-9 p.m. at the Thayer-Rock Funeral Home, Farmington. Burial was in Glen Eden Memorial Park, Livonia.
     Memorial may be made to the church or Finnish Center Association. www.thayer-rock.com

     Rossiter M. Ellis passed away on June 3, 2007, at the age of 86. His wife Eva, sons Ralph and Mark, daughter Heidi, grandchildren, relatives and friends attended the memorial ceremony in Michigan Center, MI, June 9, 2007.
     Ross was a resident of Grass Lake, MI. The local American Legion Post, where Ross was a member, provided a military tribute to Ross who was a decorated WWII veteran. Ross was born in the Copper Country, raised in L’Anse, graduated from L’Anse High School where he was a lettered athlete, and Western Michigan University.
     He worked for the state of Michigan Penal System. He was the driving force in building the educational programs within the system. Ross was very active in his church and community. He was a devoted family man, who shared his unique wisdom with everyone. He was a true gentleman, who lived his life helping, mentoring, and inspiring others. Ross was Gods’ handyman.

     Ralph J. Fortier, 83, died on June 10, 2007. He was a resident of St. Clair Shores, MI, and a veteran of the US Navy, having served in the Pacific and Mediterranean during World War II.
     Ralph was the beloved husband of Laura, loving father of Janis (Jerry) Kaminiski, Raymond (Patricia) and Yvonne (Wolfgang) Luft. Dear grandfather of Brenda Bressman, Jason, Brent, Christopher and Heather Fortier, Stacey Booza and Whitney Luft; and great grandfather of Savannah Bressman. Brother of Luella Rutkowski and the late Lionel, Clayton and Edna Carriere.
     Visitation was held on Tuesday, June 12, 2007, with prayers at Chas. Verheyden Funeral Home, Warren, MI. A funeral was conducted on Wednesday, June 13, with a Mass at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, St. Clair Shores, MI.

Helen M. Tangen

     Helen M. Tangen, age 81 of Baraga, died Saturday, June 16, 2007, at her home.
     She was born on Feb. 12, 1926 in Baraga, daughter of the late Nicholas C. and Marie (Ricken) Lindemann. Helen graduated from Baraga High School in 1944. She married Bernard Tangen on Nov. 23, 1946 in Assinins.
     Helen was co-founder of Tangen Incorporated of Baraga and served as the bookkeeper for 22 years. She was a member of St. Ann’s Parish.
Surviving are her sons Sherman Tangen of Baraga and Bradley of Chippewa Falls, WI, sister Elsie Byrne of Baraga, brother Nicholas (JoDean) Lindemann of Baraga, Ruth (Ernest) Gryka of Royal Oak, MI, sister-in-law Helen Lindemann of Detroit and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Preceding her in death is her husband Bernard on Feb. 4, 1997, brother, Joseph Lindemann.
     A private committal service was held on Monday, June 18 at the Assinins Cemetery. Fr. George Maki officiated. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L’Anse is assisting the family.
     Mrs. Tangen's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Jenifer Ruth Harju Clement passed away Dec. 31, 2006, at Methodist South Hospital in Memphis, TN.
     She was born in Denver, CO on April 26, 1961 daughter of Oiva and Nancy Harju. Jenifer was a 1979 graduate of Wheat Ridge High School in Wheat Ridge, CO and a graduate of Oklahoma State University School of Architecture in 1983. In 1994 she married Howard Clement in Seattle, WA. They resided in Southaven, MS.
     Jenifer is survived by her husband and her parents and a brother Tom Harju of Denver, CO. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Jacob and Impi Harju of Aura, Helmi Luopa of L’Anse and Oscar Koski of Lake Linden.
     A memorial service for Jenifer will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 27, 2007, at Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Pastor Scott Williams officiating. Interment will take place in the Aura Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until time of the service. Following the service the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with arrangements. Jenifer’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.

     Arvid Johnson, 87, of Baraga, went to be with the Lord, unexpectedly, on Saturday morning, June 16, 2007, at his home.
     He was born on April 5, 1920, in Baraga, to Victor and Mary (Osterland) Johnson and was a lifelong area resident.
Arvid served in the Army and was a WWII veteran. He was assigned to the 34th Infantry, Company I. He was involved in campaigns in North Africa and Italy and was wounded in action on Feb. 5, 1944.
On July 1, 1964 he married the former Helen LaChapelle in Chassell.
Arvid was employed at Pettibone for several years. He was an avid hunter, loved watching birds and enjoyed animals.
     He is survived by his wife Helen Johnson of Baraga; daughter, Cynthia Curry of Hubbell; step-son, Gary (Diane) Maki of Aura; sisters, Elsie Soli and Viv Barda, both of Baraga; nieces, Mary Jo Williams of L'Anse and Joyce Krokocki of Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Irene Petersen, Zenia Johnson and Marie Elfers; and a brother, Rudy Johnson, who was killed in action on August 19, 1944 in Germany.
     A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 21, 2007 at 11 a.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home with Pastor Judy Mattson officiating. Interment will be in the Baraga Cemetery. The Baraga County Area  Veterans will conduct military honors at the cemetery.
     Mr. Johnson's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Mrs. Thelma White, age 75, of Sand Lake, went home to be with the Lord whom she faithfully served throughout her life on Friday, June 8, 2007. She was born on July 28, 1931. She accepted Christ when she was 12 years old at a Tent Revival Service. While Pastor White was in the service and shopping for a dollhouse for his sister, Mrs. White waited on him. According to Pastor White, it was love at first sight. He would often sing to her, I found a million-dollar baby in a 5-and10-cent store. They were married on Oct. 20, 1951, and together served the Lord in the following churches--Eastport Baptist, Vestaburg Baptist, L'Anse Baptist, and then served in pulpit and interim pastor positions.
     As her children were growing up, Mrs. White found joy in serving others. She was a cook at Lincoln Lake Youth Camp and helped as a custodian; she loved that part of her life. Her spiritual gift to others was in teaching, taking part in Awana, providing hospitality to others, and welcoming missionaries and fellow believers into her home. Mrs. White was a godly woman who led by example.
     While in L'Anse, she worked at the Ben Franklin store and was an Avon Lady; and used her earnings to supplement her income and to witness her faith. When people received an Avon order, they also received a church tract. Mrs. White had many favorite Bible verses, but Proverbs 3:5-6 was very special to her. That verse was on Christmas cards, birthday cards, and anniversary cards.
     She is survived by her husband, Pastor Robert White; children, Rowena and Dale Smith of Cedar Springs, and Pastor Daniel and Shelly White of Jackson, MI; 11 grand children, Katherine Joy Smith, Justin White, Isaac and Dawn White, Benjamin White, Bethany White, Daniel White, Joel White, Matthew White, Christina White, Alissa White, and Levi White; brother, Albert and Marty Rookstool of Hurricane, WV; sister-in-law, Jenny and Julius Jones of Richwood, WV; and nieces and nephews.
     The Service of Praise and Thanksgiving for Mrs. White was on Tuesday, June 12, 2007, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Bill Crane officiating. Friends met with the White family on Monday, June 11 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment in E. Nelson Cemetery. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart.
     Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Building Fund of Fellowship Baptist Church.

     Edith L. Struble, 83, passed away on June 6, 2007 at the Columbia County Health Care Center in Wyocena, WI, where she had been a resident for three months.
     She was born in Santa Anna, CA, on Aug. 10, 1923, to Samuel and Edna (Burgess) Nichols. She attended the Mt. Pleasant, MI schools and graduated valedictorian of her class in 1941. On June 20, 1941, she married Harold Struble.
     After 18 years of marriage and four children, Edith decided to go to college, and four years later, she graduated cum laude from Central Michigan University with a bachelor of arts degree in Elementary Education. She taught second grade in Shepherd, MI, for three years and after moving to L’Anse in 1966 with her husband Harold, and son Craig, she accepted a job with the L’Anse schools teaching third grade, where she taught for 17-1/2 years, retiring in 1984.
     Edith’s hobbies included kayaking on Lake Superior, as cross country skiing (where she was a regular on the Pinery Trails), quilting, walking, gardening, and playing cards with her friends.
     Edith was a member of the Church of Christ in Shepherd, MI, and attended the Zeba Indian Mission United Methodist Church. She was also a member of the Aura Fire Department Auxiliary and the Aura unit of the Baraga County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary.
After living in L’Anse for 40 years, Edith and her husband Harold moved to Portage, WI, in 2005 to be closer to their son, Craig.
     She is survived by her four children, Bonnie (Marty) Betz of Virginia Beach, VA, Sue (Tom) Weber of Enid, OK, James (Betty) Struble of Cedarville, MI, and Craig (Sharon) of Wyocena, WI, two brothers, Ken (Margaret) Nichols of Shepherd, MI, and Clyde Nichols of Clinton Township, MI, nine grandchildren, Shaun Rooker, Paige Fashik, Heather Cheek, Nina Chronopolis, Joe Betz, Darren Struble, Joy Struble Hedstrom, Peter Struble and Katie Struble, fifteen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
     Edith was preceded in death by her parents, husband Harold, brothers Jim, Nathaniel, and Ben and sisters Ruth and Betty.
     A memorial service will be held on June 23, 2007, at 11 a.m. in the Zeba Indian Mission United Methodist Church with Rev. John Henry officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service in the church. Interment will be in the Salt River Cemetery in Shepherd, MI, at a later date.
     Memorials may be directed to the Aura Fire Department Auxiliary and to the Baraga County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary.
Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.

     Ruby Jean Walitalo, 73, longtime resident of Baraga County, died in Spokane, WA, Thursday morning, June 7, 2007.
     Jean was born on Oct. 31, 1933 in Glenwood, AK. She was the daughter of Ruby (Kendrick) and Roy Short. Jean moved to Baraga from Grass Valley, CA, in 1949, and graduated from Baraga High School in 1951.
     Jean was a member of the Baraga Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. She moved to Yuba City, CA in 2002 to care for her mother. She was a resident of Spokane, WA, at the time of her death, and a member of the South Hill Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses in Spokane.
     Jean was known for her loving and kind disposition and her interest in others. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
     She is survived by her husband, Paul Walitalo; two sons, Mark Walitalo of Ann Arbor, MI, James Walitalo of Pelkie; two daughters, Paula (Gordon) Polito of Seattle, WA, and Lisa (Jeff) Siler of Spokane, WA; brother, Don Short of Roseburg, OR; 11 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Gracie Charlene Short, "Jackie" Konstenius; brother, William Short; son, David Walitalo.
     A memorial service for Jean will be held Saturday, June 16, 2007, 1 p.m. at the South Hill Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses Kingdom Hall in Spokane.

     A memorial service for Monica Leemon Noble who passed away on Dec. 13, 2006, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 16, 2007, at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse.
     The family will receive friends on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Following the service the family invites friend to join them in a farewell reception held in the Harrington Gathering Room, located at the funeral home.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, has been entrusted with arrangements.

     Clayton “Jack” Hanan of Milwaukee, reunited with his wife on Wednesday, June 6, 2007, age 78.
     Beloved husband of the late Delores M. (nee Budreau) Hanan. Loving father of Jeff (Beth) and Paula (Barry) Becker. Special grandpa of Claire and Kyle Hanan; Jennifer and Josh Becker. Preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Ada Hanan; brother, LaVerne (Shirley) Hanan; and sister, Beverly (Leon) Francis. Brother of Earl Fulcher. Special brother-in-law of John (Eunice) Budreau. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, longtime friends and neighbors.
     Jack retired from Briggs and Stratton in 1996, after 46 years of employment. He was a longtime member of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church; served in the US Army as a Quartermaster during the Korean Conflict. He thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren and their activities, bowling, trips to the casino, Irish Fest, the Packers, and was the family photographer.
     Visitation was at the funeral home on Monday, June 11, 2007, 4-6:45 p.m. Vigil Service was at 7 p.m. Committal Service Pinelawn Memorial was on Tuesday, June 12, 2007, 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin appreciated.
     You will always be loved, remembered and missed.
     Condolences to: www.krausefuneralhome.com.

     Eleanora Metz, 86, of L'Anse, died Thursday morning, June 7, 2007, at Bayside Village Nursing Center in L'Anse.
     She was born on Sept. 27, 1920, in Phelps, WI, a daughter of the late George and Anna (Anderson) Soli. She attended Pequaming High School and graduated in 1937.
     Following graduation, she moved to Detroit where she worked for Cadillac and met her future husband, Ira Metz. The couple was married in the Salem Norwegian Lutheran Church in Detroit in 1943. They relocated to L'Anse in 1945.
     Eleanora was employed for 20 years at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, working in the kitchen. She retired on Aug. 1, 1984.
She was a member of United Lutheran Church and enjoyed crocheting and gardening.
     She is survived by a daughter, Loretta (Anthony) Golden of L'Anse; son, Larry (Jo) Metz of Sierra Vista, AZ; four grandchildren, Carol Carlson of Peducka, KY, Janet Deziel of Baraga, Pamela Metz of Sierra Vista, AZ and James Metz of Sierra Vista; two great-grandchildren, Jessica Deziel and Myranda Deziel; sister, Margaret Tollefson of Florence, WI; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ira; brother, Rev. John Soli; and sisters, Gundrun and Ellen.
     Visitation was held on Sunday, June 10, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home. A funeral service was held on Monday, June 11, 2007, at 11 a.m. in the United Lutheran Church with Rev. Scott Williams officiating. Visitation was also held for one hour prior to the service in the church. Interment was in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery.
     Mrs. Metz's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Gerald L. Beck, 81, of Ontonagon, died Saturday morning, June 2, 2007 at Ontonagon Memorial Hospital following a lengthy illness.
     He was born on May 6, 1926, in L’Anse, a son of the late Anthony Supanich and Vivian Newland. Gerald’s father died when he was a boy and he was later adopted and raised by Walter Beck. He attended and graduated from Trout Creek High School.
     Gerald was a WWII veteran having served in the army and was stationed at the Los Alamos Atomic Center in New Mexico.
     He married the former Sylvia Jacobson in L’Anse on April 29, 1946.
He was employed for many years with the Parks Department for the State of Michigan.
     Gerald was a member of United Methodist Church in Ontonagon and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. His leisure activities included clock-making.
     He is survived by his wife, Sylvia Beck of Ontonagon; children, Carol (Vaughan) Chapman of Cary, IL, Shirley (Dean) Jackson of Marquette and Allan (Kay) Beck of Ontonagon; a brother, Donald (Dorothy) Beck of Sidnaw; sister-in-law Elvie Grady of Milwaukee; and 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Michael, and daughter-in-law, Diane.
     In accordance with Gerald’s wishes, a graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2007 at 2 p.m. in the Sidnaw Cemetery. The Jacobson Funeral Home in L’Anse is assisting the family.
     Mr. Beck’s obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Shirley M Bleile, 71, of White Pine and formerly of Baraga, passed away Friday, June, 1, 2007 at Marquette General Hospital. She had been ill for a week.
     Shirley was born in Baraga on May 4, 1936, daughter of the late Ernest and Anna (Sterk) Kunick. She attended school in Baraga and graduated from Baraga High School in 1972 along with her eldest daughter.
     On Aug. 15, 1953 she married Richard Bleile in Baraga. He passed away in 2003. She and her late husband Richard operated the Lakeview Hardware in L’Anse until it was sold and then she was employed as an aide at the former Winkler Nursing home. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, wordbooks and her pet yorkie “Zoe”. She had resided in White Pine for the last three years.
     Shirley is survived by her loving children, Richard C. (Deb) Bleile of York, PA, daughter Bonnie (Michael) Razmus of White Pine, and daughter Diane (Gary) Banbury, of Rathdrum, ID, grand children Amber, Lexie, Michael, Jessica, Rusty, Alexa, Shelby, and Morgan; great grandchildren Naomie, Anders, and Kelsea. She is also survived by one brother and four sisters, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by a son William, one brother and three sisters.
     Family services will be held and interment will take place in the Baraga Cemetery. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family suggests memorials to the American Cancer Society. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, has been entrusted with arrangements. Friends may leave a note of condolence at www.rfsc.net 

     Mr. Robert Lee Webster Sr., 83, of US Hwy. 601 S, formerly of L’Anse, died Tuesday, May 29, 2007, at Davis Regional Medical Center in Statesville, NC.
     Mr. Webster was born on June 10, 1923, in Franklin County, OH to the late Lott and Louise Feist Webster.
     He was a veteran of the US Marines and was a member of the VFW and the American Legion. Mr. Webster retired after 27 years of service with The Campbell Soup Co. in Chicago, IL and later worked with the sign department for the state of Illinois.
    He was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church and a former member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in L’Anse, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus.
     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary E. McLernan Webster on Feb. 23, 2006; and two sisters. Survivors include a daughter, Mary Ellen Webster of Mocksville; two sons, Robert Lee (Paula) Webster, Jr. of Virginia Beach, VA and Kevin Webster of Iron Mountain; a brother, Thomas (Patricia) Webster of Chicago, IL; and three grandchildren, Matthew Webster, David Webster and Katherine Webster.
     A mass of Christian burial was held at 9:30 a.m., Friday, June 1, at St. Francis Catholic Church, with the Rev. Andrew Draper officiating. The body was placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the service. Burial was in National Cemetery in Salisbury, NC. The family received friends at the church thirty minutes prior to the service. They request that memorials be considered for the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church building fund, 862 Yadkinville Rd., Mocksville, NC 27028. Eaton Funeral Home is serving the family of Mr. Webster.

     Donna Jean Weber, age 69, of Tavares, FL, passed away on May 30, 2007.
     She was born in Herman, and moved to Tavares from Shelby, MI in 1996. She was an Administra-tive Supervisor for Gerber Manu-factures. She was a member of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church.
     She is survived by her son, Mark (Dustie) Johnson of Howard City, MI, Scott Johnson of Fremont, MI; brother, Gerald (Brenda) Moilanen of Leesburg; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
     A Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 9, 2007 at Steverson Hamlin and Hilbish Funeral Home with Deacon Bill Fisher officiating.
     Arrangements have been entrusted to Steverson Hamlin and Hilbish Funeral Home, 226 East Burleigh Boulevard, Tavares, FL 32778. Online condolences may be left at www.steversonhamlinhilbish.com

     Louise B. Kinnaird, 85, passed away May 22, 2007 in Sun City, AZ. She was born in L’Anse, MI to John and Florence Brennan.
Louise attended the University of Texas earning her degree. After college she started her career with Proctor & Gamble, where she became their first female manager.
     Louise met her husband to be, Clay and they married in Houston, TX in 1956. She and her husband raised their two sons in Houston and Beaumont, TX and Nashville, TN.
     After the kids left for college, Louise and Clay moved to California and lived in San Diego and Bakersfield.
     They retired to Sun City, AZ twenty years ago. Louise devoted countless hours to volunteering at Boswell Memorial Hospital, which she loved. When she wasn’t helping out at the hospital, Louise was enjoying a good book.
     Louise is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clay.
     Louise is survived by her sons, Clay (Patty) Kinnaird and John B. (Lanette) Kinnaird, eight grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and her adored schnauzer, Suzy.
     A memorial service is pending but will take place around the third week of June, 2007 at Sunland Memorial Park, 15826 Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, AZ 85351. (623) 933-0161.

     Sandra J. Sundman, 63 of Houghton, MI., passed away shortly after admittance to Portage Health System in Hancock on Sunday, May 20, 2007. She was born in Hancock, MI on May 14, 1944 daughter of the late Sulo and Aune (Ahonen) Mikkola. Her father passed away during  WWII while Sandra was still a child. Her mother married Paul Jacobson and Paul adopted and raised Sandy as his own. She graduated from L’Anse High School in 1962. Sandy then attended College at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti. She was a member of United Lutheran Church, L’Anse. Sandy loved to travel in her younger years and was a frequent visitor of Florida during the winter months.
     Sandy is survived by her loving children, Steve (Michele) Martinac of Ishpeming, and Bonnie (Kevin) Patana of Houghton, grandchildren, Ryan, and Tyler Martinac, and Travis, Taylor and Taryn Kaurala. Numerous cousins and friends also survive. She was preceded in death by her father, Sulo, mother, Aune and father Paul.
     A memorial service for Sandy will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 24, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Pastor Scott Williams officiating. Interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 6 p.m. until time of the service. Following the service the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and refreshments in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with arrangements. Sandy’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfs.net.

     Clarence Geroux, Jr., 85, of Baraga, passed quietly Monday afternoon, May 14, 2007 while with his four sons.
     He was born on March 7, 1922, in Gwinn, a son of the late Clarence and Ida (Badger) Geroux, Sr. He was raised in the Gwinn area and attended Gwinn Schools.
     Clarence was a well known local logger. He loved to watch and feed his birds.
     He is survived by his sons, Richard (Cheryl) Geroux, Bruce (Janet) Geroux, George (Mary) Geroux and Greg (Barb) Geroux, all of Baraga; daughter-in-law, Sharon Geroux of Harrison, MI; son-in-law, Roger Miron of Baraga and their families; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Harriet (Madosh) Geroux, son, William “Butch” Geroux and daughter, Judy Miron.
     A Memorial Mass was celebrated on Friday, May 18, 2007 at 11 a.m. in St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Baraga with Rev. Augustin George officiating. Interment was in the Baraga Cemetery.
     The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family. Mr. Geroux’s obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Smith age 44 of Pompano Beach, FL passed away on Sunday morning March 25th, 2007. She was born in Detroit on January 3, 1963, daughter of the late Bruce and Shirley (Walitalo) Kemppainen of Redford, MI. Pam was united in marriage to Hugh M. Smith on July 16th 1988 in Detroit.
     She is survived by a daughter Sara Jean of L’Anse, MI, and sons David Nicolas of L’Anse, MI and John Daniel of West Boca, FL. Sisters Christine Dobson of Redford, MI, Mary (Don) Takala of Keweenaw Bay, MI, Jane Kemppainen (Bill Jameson) of Allen Park, MI, and Sally (Mike) Huhta of L’Anse, MI, and brothers John (Shirley) Kemppainen of L’Anse, MI, Robert (Cathy) Kemppainen of South Lyon, MI, companion Val Garcia of Pompano Beach, FL and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
     She is preceded in death by her husband Hugh and her niece Heather Ann Lentz.
     A Memorial Service will be held at 11 am Saturday May 26th at the Mission United Lutheran Church in Pelkie with Pastor John Autio officiating. Internment will take place at the Pelkie Cemetery. There will be a visitation with the family and a light lunch following the services at the church and cemetery.

     Gloria G. Juntunen, 78, of Alston, died Friday morning, May 18, 2007, in the Skilled Nursing Unit at Baraga County Memorial Hospital in L'Anse. She was born June 24, 1928, in Hubbell, Michigan.
     She was the daughter of the late Charles and Maria King and was a life long resident of the area. On January 20, 1951 she married Ilmar Juntunen of Alston who proceded her in death on May 26, 2006.
     Gloria was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church and a Past President of the Kinnunen-Sutinen VFW Auxillary Post 7646 in Alston. In addition, she belonged to the Ladies Auxillary of the Laird Volunteer Fire Department. Her leisure activities included quilting, crafting, and fishing, cooking, baking and spending time with family.
     Gloria is survived by her children, John (Janet) Juntunen of Nisula, Judith (Thomas) Allen of Battle Creek, Michael Juntunen of Alston, Carol (Stephen) Klein of Tamarack City, Gloria J. Juntunen of L'Anse, Carl I. Juntunen, Jr. of Anchorage, AK, Margaret (Shawn) Signalness of Chaska, MN, Barbara (Todd) Burkhardt of Minneapolis, MN, and Mary Kaye (John) Smith of Alston; grandchildren, Martti (Kristi) Juntunen of Alston, Lori Juntunen of Appleton, WI, Amy (Brian) Mensch of McMillan, Sara (Matt) Myers of Battle Creek, Lisa (Dan) Buehler of Cedar Springs, Thomas (Beverly) Allen of Cibolo, TX, Alan (Jessica) Juntunen of Alston, Jason Juntunen of 29 Palms, CA, Ashley Juntunen of Alston, Jenna Juntunen of Alston, Ricky Juntunen of Alston, Andy Fountaine of Madison, WI, April Fountaine of Lake Linden, Adam Fountaine of Hubbell, Samantha Juntunen of Washington State, Alexandria Juntunen of Washington State, Justin Signalness of Chaska, MN, Jessica Signalness of Chaska, MN, George Burkhardt of Minneapolis, MN, Charlie Burkhardt of Minneapolis, MN, John Carl Smith of Alston, Genevieve Smith of Alston, ; great-grandchildren, Maijah Juntunen, Heather and Darla Mensch, Kaylee, Jacob and Michael Allen, Katie, Rachael and Cole Myers, McKenna and Jace Buehler, Allison and Julie Juntunen; sister-in-law, Eva (Harry) Jackson of Westland, MI; a brother, Russell (Clem) King of Royal Oak, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
     She was preceded in death by an infant son, Robert George; brothers, Nelson, Hubert, and Ray; and a sister Bernice Raymond.
     Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 23, 2007 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home. VFW Auxiliary memorial service will be at 7:00 p.m. followed by a parish prayer service. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 24, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Baraga with Rev. Augustin George officiating. Internment will be in the Nisula Cemetery.
     In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, donations can be made in Gloria's name to the Baraga County Memorial Hospital's Skilled Nursing Unit or Baraga County Home Care & Hospice.
Mrs. Juntunen’s obituary may also be view at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     David Lentz Sr., age 89, of Three Lakes (Spurr Township) passed away Wednesday, May 9, 2007 at the Baraga County Memorial Hospital where he had been a patient for the past three and a half months.
     David was born on Dec. 21, 1917 in Pound, WI to John and Amelia (Frivalt) Lentz. David lived in Iron River for many years prior moving to Michigamme in 1946 and later moving to Three Lakes in 1966 where he has lived ever since.
     David worked first of all as an underground miner at the Buck Mine in Iron River and the Mather A. Mine for Cleveland Cliffs. He then worked for 18 years for Kimberly Clark in Champion and most recently was a self employed logger for Lentz Logging Company. He also worked for Luke Brothers and Hamel Construction Company.
     David was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church of Champion, was a volunteer for the Spurr Township Fire Department for 36 years and was past treasurer of Spurr Township. David enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and spending time on the water boating.
     David is survived by two children David J. Lentz of Spurr Township, and Duane J. (Shelia) Lentz of Felicity, OH, a sister Helen Kostreva of Pound, WI, 10 grandchildren: Debra Zimmer, Anita Poehls, Daisy (Donald) Webb, Allan Lentz, Greg (Lisa) Taisto, Susan (Jim) Treau, John Lentz, Dan (Anna) Galske, Charlie Lentz and Sydney Lentz, 16 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. David was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Elaine (Whitcomb) Lentz, a daughter Beverly Galske, a sister June Oksheski and brothers Henry and Ray Lentz.
     Funeral services were held at 1p.m. Monday, May 14, 2007, at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming with Carole Neitzel, LLM officiating. Burial took place at Northland Chapel Gardens. Friends called the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home on Monday from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m.
     David’s obituary may also be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com  where his guest book may be signed.

     Theresa A. Morin, 74, of Baraga, passed away Monday, April 30, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L'Anse, following a lengthy illness.
     She was born in Hubbell, MI. on Aug. 9, 1932 daughter of the late Henry and Rose (Monette) Perrow. Theresa attended school in Baraga. She married Russell "Pete" Morin in Milwaukee in 1952. He preceded her in death on Dec. 27, 1997. The family lived in California for 11 years. They moved back to Baraga where she was employed as a housekeeper at the Ojibwa Casino for two years until illness forced her retirement.
     She was a member of Holy Name of Jesus Church in Assinins and a past member of the Ojibwa Senior Citizens. Theresa's greatest joy were her grandchildren. She loved people and enjoyed cooking, crafts, playing bingo and listening to country music.
     Mrs. Morin is survived by her loving and devoted daughters, Nancy (Matt) Shalifoe of Baraga, and Colleen Morin of Baraga, grandchildren, Jesse, Emily, Jason, Mattie, Jeremy, Ashley, and Jaren, three great-grandchildren, Jaycie, Logan, and Tyler, and brother, James (Joanna) Perrow of Idaho. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. She was preceded in death by two sons, Gary, and Russell, and her brother, Russell.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Morin were held at 1 p.m. Friday, May 4, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse, with Father Augustin George officiating. Interment took place in the Baraga Cemetery. The family received friends on Thursday, May 3, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, and Friday from 12 noon until time of the service. Thursday evening a parish prayer service was held in the funeral chapel at 7 p.m. The family has entrusted the Reid      Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements. Mrs. Morin’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     A memorial service for Jeffrey Michael Kangas, 45, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and uncle will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 11, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Pastor Weldon Townsend officiating. Interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday from noon until time of the service. Following the service, the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and a luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     Jeff was called home to be with the Lord on Friday, March 9, 2007.  He was born in L’Anse on Oct. 15, 1961 son of James and Charlene (Bentzen) Kangas. Jeff graduated from L’Anse High School in 1979 and received his Bachelor of Science in M.I.S. from Central Michigan University. He married the former Julie Thelen on July 15, 2006. Jeff owned the Jeff M. Kangas State Farm Agency in Hemlock, MI and was a member of Shield of Faith Church in Shields, MI. Jeff was an avid golfer and sportsman.
     His life’s greatest joy was spending time with his children, which included school and church activities and coaching nine of his children’s sports teams.
     Jeff is survived by his loving wife, Julie, his children, Elizabeth, Mitchell, and Christian Kangas, and Nikki, Brianna, and Desmond White, his parents, Jim and Charlene Kangas of L’Anse, two sisters, Kristen (Rob) Kraft and Stacey (Brian) Stiebe both of St. Johns, MI, aunts and uncles, Wayne (Chris) Kangas of DeWitt, MI and Larry (Jean) Kangas of L’Anse, nieces and nephews, Hannah, Lauren Chelsea, Nathan, Taylor, and Michael, his parents-in-law, Alan (Alice) Thelen, sister-in-law, Linda Thelen all of St. Johns, MI and brother-in-law, Tim (Kiersten) Thelen of Grand Ledge, MI. Numerous cousins, other relative, and many friends also survive.
    He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Carl and Mildred (Wilson) Bentzen, and paternal grandparents, Waino and Anna (King) Kangas.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with arrangements.

     Catherine M. "Kate" Harrington, 82, of L’Anse, passed away Tuesday, April 24, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital. She had been in ill health for several months.
     Kate was born in Kenosha, WI. on Oct. 15, 1924 daughter of the late Theodore and Mary (Hand) Brus. She attended school in Baraga and graduated in 1942.
     Kate moved to Detroit and worked as a "Rosie the Riveter" at Hudson Motor Aircraft Co. during WWII. She married Earl Harrington on Nov. 8, 1945 at St. Phillips Church in Detroit. Kate and Earl raised their family in St. Clair Shores. While living in the Shores she was involved in the formation of St. Angeles Parish and was a Den Leader of Cub Scouts for years. She and Earl retired to L'Anse in 1990.
     She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse and was actively working with the Knights of Columbus. Kate was a former member of the L'Anse American Legion Post 144. Her main hobby consisted of going to and having garage sales. Kate was always a willing worker and volunteer for anyone needing help in the community.
     Mrs. Harrington is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Earl, children, Bob (Deanna) Harrington of Marquette, Mary Kay Harrington of Marquette, Pat Harrington of Goodrich, MI. and Mike (Nancy) Harrington of Holly, MI, 14 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, sister, Karen of Tampa, sisters-in-law, Rita Brus of St. Clair Shores, Maxine Brus of Long Lake, MI., Myra Ellico of Colorado, Lois (Felix) Mickus of Sun City West, AZ, Betty (Jack) Reid of L'Anse, and brother-in-law, Jerry Harrington of Skanee. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. She was preceded in death by her sons, John, and Jim, brothers, Bob, and Jim and sister, Mary Lou.
     A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 28, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse with Father Augustin George, celebrant. Interment took place in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends on Friday, April 27, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse and for one hour prior to the Mass at church on Saturday. Friday evening a parish prayer service was held at 6:30 p.m. in the funeral chapel.
     Memorials in Kate's honor may be directed to St. Vincent DePaul or Sacred Heart Catholic School. Envelopes were available at the funeral chapel and church. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse has been entrusted with arrangements. Mrs. Harrington’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Leo Leonard Niemela, 78, a resident of Skanee passed away Wednesday morning April 25, 2007, at the Marquette General Hospital.
     He was born on Feb. 16, 1929, in Pilgrim District, a son of the late John and Ina (Hongisto) Niemela, as a child he attended the Pilgrim School.
     He was a veteran having served in the United States Army during the Korean War.
     On Sept. 14, 1951, he was united in marriage to the former Doris Anderson in Detroit.
     Leo was a member of the Chassell Apostolic Lutheran Church.
     Mr. Niemela had resided in the Detroit area where he owned and operated Stainless Dies by Niemela until he relocated back to the copper country in 1968. Leo has since owned and operated Northern Farm Dairy in Chassell, The Super 8 Motel in Baraga, and presently was partners in Northern Tool and Engineering also in Baraga. Leo loved to create the impossible.
     Preceding him in death where his parents and six brothers and sisters: Emma, Martha, Bertha, Aldrick, Esther, Marvin and two still born granddaughters.
     Surviving are: his wife Doris Niemela of Chassell; children: Carol (Robert) Salmi of Chassell, Jerome (Rebecca) Niemela of Chassell, Mark (Eva) Niemela of Keweenaw Bay, and Lois ( Albert) Matson of Yacolt, WA; 38 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; one sister: Ina Mae Somero of New Ipswich, NH; two brothers: Wallace (Elna) Niemela of Chassell and Ralph (Helen) Niemela of Fitzwilliam, NH. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends
Funeral services for Leo were held at 11 a.m. Monday April 30, 2007, at the Tapiola Apostolic Lutheran Church with Donald Holombo officiating. Burial will be in the Jacobsville Cemetery.
     Friends called on Sunday April 29, 2007, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Chassell and on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of services at the church.
     To view Leo’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net

     James N. Erickson died on Wednesday, April 18, 2007.
     He was born on Jan. 15, 1954 in Mason City, IA. James graduated from L’Anse High School in 1972 and moved to Wisconsin. He resided most of his life in Oak Creek, WI and worked at GM. He transferred to Reno, NV in 2005 and retired in 2006.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Betty Lepola Erickson. James is survived by his brother, Steve of Franklin, WI and his beloved daughter, Laurie Bailie, her husband Chris and three loving grandsons, Joshua, Dominicke, and Sean of Reno, NV. Also surviving are other relatives and friends.
     Funeral service will be Wednesday, April 25, in Reno, NV. Condolences can be sent to Laurie Bailie at deddet@hotmail.com  or Laurie Bailie, 131 Aurora Ave., Reno, NV 89506.

     William "Bill" St. John, 59, of Pelkie, died Monday afternoon, April 9, 2007, at his home, following a lengthy illness.
     He was born on Jan. 31, 1948, in Jackson, MI, a son of John and Natalie (Lewis) St. John. Bill attended and graduated from Jackson High School.
     On June 9, 1973 he married the former Barbara Lauther in Pompano Beach, FL.
     He worked in Florida for several years installing water lines for new sub-divisions with RHJ Construction. Bill moved to Pelkie in 1988, with his family, where he owned an operated a dairy farm.
     Bill was a former chief of the Pelkie Fire Department. His leisure activities included woodworking, model trains, computer programming and rebuilding a classic car.
     He is survived by his wife, Barbara St. John of Pelkie; mother, Natalie Warning of New Smyrna Beach, FL; children, Christa (Dale) Hadden of Baraga and Jennifer (Steven) Geer of Pelkie; grandchildren, Stephen and Stephanie Hadden and Natalie Geer; a brother, Robert St. John of Houston, TX; and nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father.
     A memorial service was held on Friday, April 13, 2007 at 2 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse. Visitation was held for one hour prior to the service in the funeral home.
     Mr. St. John's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Ellen M. Giddings, 69, of L’Anse, passed away Thursday, April 12, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L’Anse shortly after admittance.
     She was born in Pequaming on Nov. 11, 1937 daughter of the late Raymond and Ellen (Haanpaa) Herrala. Ellen Marie graduated from L’Anse High School in 1956. She married Darrell Giddings in Baraga on Feb. 13, 1982.
     Ellen had worked as a nurse’s aide for Baraga County Memorial Hospital, Portage View Hospital and the former Winklers’s Nursing Home. She had also worked as a telephone operator in her younger years. Ellen enjoyed teaching Sunday school, camping, travel, sewing, knitting, and decorating. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and her dog, “Jet”.
     Mrs. Giddings is survived by her loving husband, Darrell, children, Carole Jean (Gerry) Deschaine of L’Anse and Michelle (Stuart) Francois of Marquette, brothers, Richard (Debra) Herrala of Baraga and Bill (Ann) Herrala of Walled Lake, MI, five grandchildren, two great grandchildren, three stepsons, Michael (Lisa) Giddings of Baraga, Steven (Karen) Giddings of L’Anse and Kenneth (Kerry) Giddings of L’Anse, stepdaughter, Carol (Mike Roth) Perreault of Baraga, 11 step grandchildren and eight step great grandchildren. She is also survived by an aunt, and several cousins. Ellen Marie was preceded in death by her nephew, Tommy, one stepson, Jack, and one step granddaughter, Holly.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Giddings were held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 16, 2007 at United Lutheran Church, L’Anse with Pastor Scott Williams officiating. The family received friends at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of the service.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel have been entrusted with arrangements.
     Mrs. Giddings obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Earl K. LaFernier, 77, of Keweenaw Bay, died Friday afternoon, April 13, 2007, at his home, surrounded by his family, following a lengthy illness.
     He was born on March 18, 1930, in Keweenaw Bay, a son of the late Walter and Helen (Wesola) LaFernier and had been a lifelong area resident. On May 16, 1953 he married the former Carol Velmer in the Sacred Heart Church in L’Anse.
     Earl was employed by Snowdon and performed road work duties before his employment with Celotex where he worked for 30 years.
He served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and was stationed in Alaska.
     Earl was a member of Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church at Assinins. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking and remodeling his home.
     He is survived by his wife, Carol LaFernier of Keweenaw Bay; children, Dale (Susan) LaFernier of Skandia, Kristine (Mike) Loftquist of L’Anse, Debra (Mark) Fuller of L’Anse, Robert (Janet) LaFernier of Tecumseh, MI, Kevin (Missy) LaFernier of Aura and Joe (Lynn) LaFernier of Baraga; 13 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth LaFernier and siblings, Leslie, Wilber, Stella, Mildred, Mervin and Ben.
     Visitation was held on Monday, April 16, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home in L’Anse. The Baraga County Area Veterans performed military honors at 7 p.m. followed by a parish prayer service. Visitation was also held on Tuesday, April 17, 2007 from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Baraga. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. in the church with Rev. George Maki officiating. Interment will be in the Assinins Cemetery.
     Mr. LaFernier's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Calvin G. Klemola, age 59, of 345 S. County Road 557, Gwinn, died unexpectedly Saturday evening, April 7, 2007 at his home.
     Calvin was born on Aug. 1, 1947 in Covington to the late Tenho and Saima (Koski) Klemola. A 1965 graduate of Neguanee High School, he enlisted in the US Marines and served two tours of duty in Vietnam.
Calvin was formerly employed as service manager for Ford Fairlane in Dearborn, retiring due to poor health.
     He was a member of American Legion Post #349 in Little Lake
Survivors include his wife, Lynn Klemola of Gwinn, two children, Melissa Klemola and Shawn Klemola, both of Garden City, MI; one granddaughter, Alexis Klemola; three sisters, Helen Harrison of Redford, MI, Shirley (Norman) Luoma of Champion and Beverly (Don) Sanders of Phoenix, AZ; also several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, June Heikkinen.
     Friends may call at the Gwinn Funeral Home on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where services will be held in the funeral home at 1 p.m. with Pastor Michael Carriere officiating. Burial will take place in the Covington Cemetery. Members of American Legion Post #349 of Little Lake will provide military honors.
     Calvin’s obituary can also be viewed at www.gwinnfuneral.com  where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.

     Charles William Olsen, 75, of Scottsdale, AZ, passed away on Friday, March 30, 2007 at his home.
     Charles was an Air Force veteran and a successful insurance entreprenuer specializing in risk analysis. His greatest passion for the past 30 years was serving our Lord.
     "Charley" was born on Sept. 25, 1931 in Laurium, to Olaf (O.C.) and Amanda (Savola) Olsen and attended the L'Anse schools. He is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie, and four sons, Curtis of Spokane, WA; Glenn of Canoga Park, CA; Jerry of Woodland Hills, CA; and Edward of Phoenix, AZ; one daughter, Karyn of Stanford, CA; and seven precious grandchildren. Three surviving sisters, Edith (the late Roy) Olson, Surprise, AZ; Bette (Agnes) (the late John) Bokowski, Winnetka, CA; Mary (Ray) Peterson, Chicago, IL, and two brothers Dan (Mary) Warrenton, VA; and Allan (Nellie) Las Cruces, NM. He also leave 26 nieces and nephews to mourn his passing.
     Charley was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, James, Robert and Jack, and one sister, Sarah.
     Memorial services were held on Wednesday, April 4, at Crossroads Nazarene Church, Scottsdale, AZ. Interment at Arizona National Memorial Cemetery.

     Duane Aanderud, age 66 of 98 Croix St., Negaunee, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 1, 2007 at the Mather Nursing Center where he had been a resident since Feb. 8, 2007.
     Duane was born on March 19, 1941 in Munising to Louise (Collins) and Theodore Aanderud. Duane was an accomplished commercial artist. He also owned and operated PaPa D's Pizza Parlor in Crosby, TX for 10 years. Duane returned to the Upper Peninsula, moving to L'Anse in 1999 where he lived for a few years prior to moving to Negaunee.
     Duane enjoyed the outdoors of the Upper Peninsula since childhood.  He spent time searching for the best places to fish. He also liked walking in the woods and taking photographs of interesting subjects. Duane had a gentle soul and a great sense of humor. He will be dearly missed by all.
     Duane is survived by his mother Louise Gerard of L'Anse, three children: Elizabeth Leatherwood of Conroe, TX, Avery Aanderud of Galveston, TX and Aaron Aanderud of Alexandria, VA, a granddaughter Ashleigh Leatherwood, a brother: Dennis (Brenda) Aanderud of Spotsylvania, VA, three sisters: Diane (Charles) Garrett of Gulf Shores, AL, twin sister, Dawn (Dale) Numikoski of Ishpeming and Renae Aanderud of Pensacola, FL, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Duane was preceded in death by his father Theodore Aanderud and a nephew Shane McGlone.
     Private family services will be held at a later date.
     Duane's obituary may also be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com  where one can sign his guest book or leave a note of remembrance.
Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

     Josephine B. LaPointe, 77, of L'Anse, died Wednesday afternoon, April 4, 2007, at Marquette General Hospital following a brief illness.
     She was born on Sept. 8, 1929, in Hancock, a daughter of the late Arthur and Isabelle (Demgen) LaBeau. Josephine was a 1947 L'Anse High School graduate.
     On June 26, 1948 she married Francis LaPointe in Chicago and he preceded her in death on Oct. 21, 1977.
Josephine was employed as a housekeeper at Winkler's Nursing Home from 1978 to 1986.
     She was a member of Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church at Assinins, a member of the KBIC, Ojibwa Senior Citizens and VFW Auxiliary.
     She is survived by two sons, James (Connie) LaPointe of Huron Bay and Francis (Nancy) LaPointe, Jr., of Baraga; a daughter, Denise (Arlen "Gus" Stein) LaPointe of L'Anse; five grandchildren, Shyela (Ron) Graham of Chama, NM, Michael LaPointe of Kemmerer, WY, Joan Marie LaPointe of Mt. Pleasant, MI, Francis LaPointe III of Baraga and Nissa LaPointe of Baraga; there great-grandchildren, Lila Morningstar, Tayrn and Kayla Graham; two sisters, Shirley (Gerald) Clisch of Baraga and Janet (Art) Engel of L'Anse; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Joan Marie in 1983.
     A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, April 10, 2007 at 11 a.m. in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church with Rev. George Maki officiating. Interment will be in the Assinins Cemetery at a later date.
     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church would be appreciated.
     The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Mrs. LaPointe's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Ward B. Barnes, 78, of L’Anse, passed away Friday, April 6, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit following a lengthy illness.
    Ward was born on June 22, 1928 in L’Anse, son of the late Alex and Charlotte (LaBar) Barnes. The family moved to the Detroit area when Ward was five years old. He attended school in Detroit and was employed as a carpenter in home construction until his retirement in 1981. Returning to the L’Anse area, Ward provided maintenance services for several local businesses, was a caller for the VFW Bingo games and was a member of the bowling league. During the Korean War, Ward honorably served in the US Army. He was a life member of the L’Anse VFW Post 3897.
     Mr. Barnes is survived by his half brother John J. (Jean) Barnes of Nashville, TN. and sister Debra Witkowski of Wilmington, NC. He is also survived by nieces and nephews and several cousins in the L’Anse area. Special friends Roxanne and Curt Wanhatalo and Derek are also among his survivors.
     Funeral services for Ward were held Monday, April 9, 2007 at 7 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Pastor John Henry officiating. Interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral chapel on Monday from 6 until 7 p.m. where military honors were accorded at 6:30 p.m. under the direction of the Baraga American Legion Post 444. Following the services, friends were invited to join the family for refreshments and fellowship in the Harrington Gathering Room, located at the funeral home.
     Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse. Mr. Barnes’ obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.rfsc.net .

     Julia A. Tesanovich, of Herman, passed away at her home on Sunday, March 25, 2007, following a lengthy battle with cancer. Her loving family was by her side.
     Julie, daughter of William and Mary “Sis” (Schutte) Kayramo, was born on April 27, 1955, in L’Anse. Julie was raised in Herman and graduated from L’Anse High School in 1973. She attended Michigan Technological University and in 1979 earned her nursing degree, with honor. Julie worked as a nurse for many years at Baraga County Memorial Hospital and also with Baraga County Home Health Care and Winkler’s Nursing Home.
     In October, 1984 she married Paul Tesanovich and together they raised three children, Sean, Jalena and Vance. In 1991, Julie attained her real estate license and began her real estate career at Rolof Agency in L’Anse. She later worked with Century 21. She successfully achieved broker status and in 2001, along with her husband, Paul, started North Shore Real Estate. In 2004, she was appointed by Governor Jennifer Granholm to the State Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons. Julie particularly enjoyed the listing and selling of vacant land because it gave her the opportunity to spend time in the countryside and forest. She often was accompanied by her faithful companions; her dogs Champ and Chloe.
     Julie was an avid gardener and enjoyed the many hours spent tending to her flowers and shrubs. Julie also loved spending peaceful time relaxing at her camp in Skanee and often slept under the stars.
Julie is survived by her loving family: husband Paul; three children, Sean Clements (Cheryne LaPointe) of Marquette, Jalena and Vance of Herman; one special grandson, Easton Clements, as well as her mother, Mary “Sis” Kayramo of L’Anse and brother William J. Kayramo of L’Anse. She was preceded in death by her father, William.
     A memorial and celebration of Julie’s life will be held at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse on Saturday, March 31, 2007, at 5 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend. Refreshments will be served after the memorial service in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     In lieu of flowers or other expressions of sympathy, the family suggests that memorials be given to Hope Lodge, 611 W. Doege, Marshfield, WI. 54449. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with arrangements. Julie’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net  or Paul at ptesano@up.net

     Irene Dahl, 82, of Gladstone, passed away Sunday, Jan. 21, 2007, at St. Francis Hospital.
     She was born in Morse, WI, on July 1, 1924, daughter of the late Arthur and Jennie (Ruberg) McDonald. A graduate of Pequaming school, she worked in the defense industry during WWII, and married Gunnard Dahl of Gladstone in 1947.
     Irene was a devoted wife and mother who enjoyed tending her garden, reading, and music. Irene and her twin sister began singing to their own guitar accompaniment as children.
     Irene is survived by her loving husband Gunnard, daughters Karen (Rix) Robinson of Florida, Jill (John) Siltala of Munising, grandsons Jeremy and Joel Siltala, twin sister Arline (Ray) VanBuren of Skanee, sister Doris Costello of Garden City, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Ray and Archie McDonald, and sister Catherine Johnson.
     The funeral service was held at the First Lutheran Church of Gladstone on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007. Interment will be at Fernwood Cemetery in Gladstone.

     James William Meteer, Sr. 85, of L’Anse, died Tuesday morning, March 6, 2007, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, following a lengthy illness.
     He was born on April 7, 1921, in Columbus, OH, a son of the late William F. and Julia Ann (Kerns) Meteer. He attended Hilliard High School in Hilliard, OH. Jim earned a Bachelor of Science in 1944 and a Masters Degree of Forestry in 1947 from the University of Michigan.
Jim was a WWII and Korean War Veteran, having served as a Captain in the Marine Corps. He was stationed in the Pacific Theatre and China during his time in the service.
     In 1944 he married the former Olympia “Lee” Capaldi on the marine base in Quantico, VA.
     Jim was employed as an assistant professor with the Ohio State Agricultural Experiment Station before taking a position as professor of Forest Research and Forestry at the Ford Forestry Center at Michigan Tech University. He earned Professor Emeritus status with MTU in 1984. Following retirement from MTU he served as president of Forest Restoration Inc., a company that worked towards the development of the forest-based economy in the Western Upper Peninsula. He also owned and operated Superior Forest Systems, a consulting firm.
     His professional activities included a fellowship and 50 year membership with the Society of American Foresters; he helped organize the Michigan Forest Association and served as its director for 10 years.
     Jim was a member of the Baraga County Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, chaired the Baraga County Committee for Overall Develop-ment and Planning, served on the Western Upper Peninsula Plan-ning and Development Commis-sion, member of L’Anse Village Industrial Committee, Vice Chair of Baraga County Senior Citizens Board, was an original organizer and Trustee of the Baraga County Community Foundation, former president of Baraga County Kiwanis for two terms, member and chair of the Public Library Advisory Board, Trustee of the Copper Country Intermediate School District, member of the American Legion, VFW, Marine Corps League, Lions, U of M Club of the Copper Country, Knight of Columbus, St. Vincent De Paul Society and Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. He was also selected Baraga County Citizen of the Year 1997.
     His leisure activities included genealogical studies, computers, American history, Sons of American Revolution, hunting and fishing.
He is survived by his wife, Olympia “Lee” Meteer of L’Anse; sons, James (Elizabeth) Meteer, Jr. of St. Louis, MO and Philip Capaldi (Nancy) Meteer of Townsend, MA; daughters, Antoinette Lee (John) Shepich of New Berlin, WI and Julia Ann (Mark) Antiel of Coon Rapids, MN; a sister, Florence Summy of Cuyahoga Falls, OH; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Charles L. Meteer.
     Visitation was held on Friday, March 9, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home. A parish prayer service was held at 7 p.m. followed by the Baraga County Area Veterans conducting military honors. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, March 10, 2007 at 11 a.m. in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church with Rev. George Maki officiating. Visitation was held for one hour prior to the mass in the church. Interment will be in the Wesley Chapel Cemetery in Hilliard, OH in the spring.
     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Baraga County Memorial Hospital or the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.
     Mr. Meteer’s obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Frances Elinor Alatalo, 89, of Pelkie, passed to eternal rest, Tuesday morning, March 6, 2007, at Bayside Village in L’Anse.
     She was born on Sept. 20, 1917, in South Range, a daughter of the late Herman and Jennie (Niemi) Alatalo. Frances was a 1936 Baraga High School graduate and salutatorian of her class.
     She worked for the NYA youth works until 1943 when she joined the Women’s Army Corps and was stationed at Fort Benning, GA during WWII. Upon discharge from the service she attended Wayne State University in Detroit where she earned a Masters Degree in Psychology.
     Frances was employed at Pontiac State Hospital and later at Newberry State Hospital as a clinical psychologist until her retirement.
She enjoyed bird watching, gardening, rock hunting, family reunions, the 4th of July Parade in Baraga and family get-togethers. Frances also wrote poetry, some of which was published. She co-edited and wrote poetry for a book, “North by Choice” which was published in 1998. She also enjoyed “round robin” writers from around the United States.
Due to ill health she moved to Alston in 2004 and later to Bayside Village in L’Anse.
     Frances is survived by two sisters, Marianne Keranen of Alston and Rose Mathes of L’Anse; caregiver and niece, Kris Kasten of Alston; sister’s-in-law, Elizabeth Alatalo and Emma Alatalo, both of Baraga and Millie Heikkinen of Milwaukee, WI; numerous nieces and nephews; and best friends, Donna Lucas of Escanaba and Mary Lou Baker of Newberry. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Herman, John and Arvi and a sister, Selma Dompier.
     A funeral service was held on Friday, March 9, 2007 at 1 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home in L’Anse with Rev. John Autio officiating.   Visitation was held for one hour prior to the service in the funeral home.  The Baraga County Area Veterans conducted military honors. Interment will be in the Baraga Cemetery in the spring.
     Ms. Alatalo’s obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Jean Alfreda Ayers, 87, of L'Anse, died Sunday afternoon, March 11, 2007, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital's Skilled Nursing Unit.
     She was born on April 21, 1919, in L'Anse, a daughter of the late Adolph and Julia (Eliassen) Tollefson. Jean was a 1937 L'Anse High School graduate. She married Oiva Moilanen in 1940 in L'Anse and he preceded her in death on Sept. 28, 1965. She married Steven Ayers in June 12, 1982 and he preceded her in death on April 12, 1983.
     Jean was employed for several years as a clerk in the tax assessment department for Baraga County. Jean was a member of United Lutheran Church.
     She is survived by a son, John (Diane) Moilanen of Peoria, AZ; two daughters, Julia (John) Stroube of Cody, WY and Jean (James) Schultz of L'Anse; grandchildren, Ray, Tim, Jim, Jessica, Donna and Denise; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; nieces and nephews; brother and sister's-in-law. She was preceded in death by eight siblings.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 15, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 16, 2007 at 11 a.m. in United Lutheran Church with Rev. Scott Williams officiating. Interment will be held in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery at a later date.
     Mrs. Ayers' obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Jeffery M. “Jeff” Kangas, 45, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and mighty man of God, was called home to be with the Lord on Friday, March 9, 2007.
     Jeff was born on Oct. 15, 1961 in L’Anse son of James and Charlene (Bentzen) Kangas. He graduated from L’Anse High School in 1979, and received his Bachelor of Science in MIS from Central Michigan University.
     He owned Jeff M. Kangas State Farm Agency in Hemlock, MI and was a member of Shield of Faith Church in Shields, MI. Jeff was an avid sportsman and youth coach for his children’s various sports teams.
     Jeff was a loving husband who was deeply loved by his wife Julie, whom he married July 15, 2006. He also leaves to cherish his memory, six children, Elizabeth Kangas, Mitchell Kangas, Christian Kangas, Nikki White, Brianna White, and Desmond White, his parents James and Charlene Kangas of L’Anse, two sisters, Kristen and Rob Kraft, and Stacey and Brian Stiebe, parents-in-law, Alan and Alice Thelen, and sister-in-law Linda Thelen all of St. Johns, MI; brother-in-law Tim and Kiersten Thelen of Grand Ledge, MI; uncles and aunts, Wayne and Chris Kangas of DeWitt, MI and Larry and Jean Kangas of L’Anse; and nieces and nephews, Hannah, Lauren, Chelsea, Nathan, Taylor, and Michael. He is also survived by many beloved cousins, other relatives and friends.
     Funeral services for Jeff were held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at Shield of Faith Church, 10322 Swan Creek Road, Saginaw, MI. Pastor Weldon Townsend officiated. Spring interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. Friends called at the W.L. Case & Company Funeral Chapel, 201 N. Miller Road, Saginaw, on Monday, March 12, 2007 from 5 until 9 p.m. and on Tuesday, March 13, 2007 from 2 until 9 p.m. and at the church on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.
     Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a trust fund for his six children, which will be established at LaSalle Bank, or the Shield of Faith Encounters Ministry.
     Local arrangements are entrusted to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse. Jeff’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.

     Grace Elenore Olsen, 100, of L'Anse, died Saturday evening, March 10, 2007, at Bayside Village in L'Anse.
     She was born on Sept. 22, 1906, in L'Anse, a daughter of the late Bernt and Rosie (Turner) Olsen. Grace was raised in L'Anse and moved to Detroit to work as a secretary for Rustic Lumber Com-pany where she was employed for more than 20 years. She then worked as a housekeeper for numerous priests and Bishop Mark Schmidt in Marquette for several years, retiring at the age of 80.
     Grace returned to L'Anse in 1987 following her retirement and resided at Greenhill Manor before entering Bayside Village where she had lived for the past few years.
     She was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church and the Baragaland Senior Citizens.
     She is survived by a nephew, Richard (Barbara) Edwards of L'Anse; three great-nieces and a great-nephew, Mary (Lester) Arceneaux of Corinth, TX, Pauline Edwards of Milwaukee, WI, Ann (Doug) George of Oxford, MI and James (Kathy) Edwards of L'Anse; and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by a brother, William B. Olsen and a sister, Mary Geraldine Edwards.
     A private Funeral Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. Inter-ment will be in the L'Anse Ever-green Cemetery.
The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family. Ms. Olsen's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Thomas L. Collins, 56, of Skanee, MI. passed away at his residence Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2007, following a six-month illness. He was born in Alpena, MI on May 15, 1950, son of Edward and Jeanne (Sicotte) Collins. Tom attended school in Alpena and graduated in 1968.
     Tom enrolled at Michigan Technological University until he enlisted in the US Air Force during the Vietnam era. He was stationed at the former KI Sawyer Air Force base as an aircraft mechanic. Following his discharge, he returned to college at Michigan State University where he earned two Bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering and mathematics.
     After his graduation, Tom was employed by the Sperry-Rand Corporation in New York, where he was assigned to the nuclear submarine division. While working at Sperry-Rand, and for 10 years after, Tom owned and operated several taxicabs in New York City. He moved to Skanee in 1997 to help care for his mother and assist his brother at the Trading Post store on Skanee Road. Tom was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in L’Anse
     Mr. Collins is survived by his loving mother, Jeanne Sebald of Skanee, brother, John Collins of Skanee, sister, Valda (Norman) Peterson of Jackson, MI, nieces, nephews and cousins and great nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his special friend, Kay Albright. Tom was preceded in death by his father, Edward, a sister, Jeanne Anne and brother, Edward S.
     A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, March 5, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse with Father George Maki, celebrant. Spring interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends on Sunday, March 4, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse and one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Monday. Sunday evening a parish prayer service was held in the funeral chapel at 7 p.m.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with arrangements. Mr. Collins’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.

     John S. Decota 78, of Ontonagon, MI. passed away Friday, March 2, 2007 at Ontonagon Memorial Hospital.
     He was born in Assinins on Feb. 2, 1929 son of the late Joseph and Josephine (Shalifoe) DeCota.
     John attended the Mission School in Assinins. He served in the US Army 101St Airborne division during the Korean Conflict. John was employed in the city of Milwaukee as a professional tree trimmer until his retirement. He returned to the area two years ago. John was a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community.
     Mr. DeCota is survived by his son, George DeCota of L’Anse, stepdaughter, Gloria Shalifoe of L’Anse, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and sister, Josephine (Virgil) Binnion of Stevenville, MI.  He was preceded in death by two brothers, and three sisters.
A memorial service for Mr. DeCota was held at 3 p.m. Monday, March 5, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel with Father George  Maki officiating. Interment will take place in the Assinins Cemetery. The family greeted friends on Monday from 2 p.m. until time of the service. Baraga County Area Veterans, under the direction of the Baraga American Legion Post 444 conducted military honors Monday at the funeral chapel at 2:30 p.m. Mr. DeCota’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net 
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with arrangements.

     John “Jack” R. Hornick, 83, of Baraga, passed away suddenly Monday, March 5, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
     He was born in Houghton, on Dec. 4, 1923 son of the late Charles and Rose Hornick. Jack graduated from Houghton High School in 1942 and then attended Michigan Tech and graduated in 1950 with a Degree in Forestry. He served in the US Navy during WWII as an aviation ordinance man.
     On Oct. 14, 1950 he married the former Marlyn Anderson at St. Ignatius Church in Houghton. Jack was employed by the State of Wisconsin in Tomahawk, worked for the Job Corp in Clam Lake, WI. and for Cliff Dow Chemical in Marquette for two years. After several other positions he was employed by the US Department of Agriculture in Washington DC from 1957 until his retirement in 1987. He and his family then returned to the UP.
     Jack and Marlyn owned and operated an antique shop called the "Country Shop" on Jurmu Road for 15 years. Jack was a member of the Society of American Foresters, the American Legion Post 144, L'Anse, and a former member of the Kiwanis. He served as chairman on the Alberta Museum Board. Jack enjoyed tennis, playing baseball on the Old Timers League, refinishing antique furniture and taking walks with his dog, "Otto".
     Mr. Hornick is survived by his loving wife, Marlyn, children, Karl (Zina) Hornick of Douglas, Wyoming, Steven (Peggy) Hornick of Appleton, WI, Kathleen Hornick of Baraga and Nancy (Roman) Butterfield of Stevens Point, WI, eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and sister, Charlotte Opie of Royal Oak, MI. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his son, John A. in 2005, and two brothers and two sisters.
     Funeral services for Mr. Hornick will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, March 9, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Robert Wahmhoff officiating. Interment will take place in the Forest Hill Cemetery, Houghton. The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 8, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse and for one hour prior to the service on Friday. A parish prayer service will be held on Thursday evening at 7 p.m. Baraga County Area Veterans, under the direction of the Baraga American Legion Post 444 will conduct military honors on Friday at 12:30 p.m. Following the service on Friday, the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     Mr. Hornick's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net  The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements.

     Eileen D. Mills, 66, of Aura, passed away at her residence with her family by her side, Sunday, Feb. 25, 2007 after losing her fight with cancer.
      She was born in Utica, MI on March 9, 1940 to the late Francis and Dorothy (Whyte) Murphy. Eileen attended St. Lawrence Catholic School for eight years then went on to Utica High School where she graduated in 1957. On June 14, 1957 she married Robert Edward Mills in LaGrange, IN. They resided in the Utica area until 1967 then they moved to Aura.
     In earlier years, she was involved in 4H programs. Eileen was a member of the Aura Fire Department Auxiliary and also a member of the Aura Hospital Auxiliary. She and Ed also operated a greenhouse for 18 years. Eileen enjoyed playing the piano, bowling, crocheting, and visiting and playing cards with family and friends. Most important to her were her six grandchildren and watching them grow up and attending their sports events.
Mrs. Mills is survived by her loving husband, Ed, three daughters, Debra (Tim) McElmurry of Farmington Hills, MI, Brenda (Greg) Hentsch of Hixton, WI, and Kim (Jim) Fedie of Nisula, MI, six grandchildren, Scott, Ashley, Joe, Greg, Jake, and Brian, a brother, Basil (Dang) Murphy of Carmichael, CA., a sister, Adele (Felo) Reyes of Lake Orion, MI, brother-in-law, John (Linda) Mills of Aura, sister-in-law, Nancy (Warren) Carlen of Utica, MI and one aunt, Marge Healey of Ontario, Canada. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. She was preceded in death by her in-laws, Al and Mary Mills and many aunts and uncles.
     A visitation for Mrs. Mills will be held on Thursday, March 1, 2007 from 10:30 a.m. until noon at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse. Spring interment will take place in the Aura Cemetery. Following the visitation the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon at the Aura Fire Hall, Aura.
     Memorials in Mrs. Mills honor may be directed to the Aura Hospital Auxiliary. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with arrangements.
     Mrs. Mill’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Bernadette "Evelyn" Bowman of Williamsburg passed away Sunday, Feb. 4, 2007 in the loving care of her son Alan.
     Evelyn was born on Aug. 13, 1926 in L'Anse, the daughter of Andrew and Lurmena (Foucault) Gauthier. Evelyn graduated from L'Anse High School in 1944 and soon moved to Pontiac, where she met Ralph. They were married in Pontiac, MI. She and Ralph lived in the Pontiac area and in 1988 they built a home in the Elk Rapids area and became full time residents in 1991.
     She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elk Rapids. Her greatest joy was having a close, loving and caring family. Evelyn, one of the early woman managers for State Farm Insurance Co., enjoyed a 38 year career working in the claims division. She attended many advanc-ed training courses in the insurance industry claims and was constantly striving to increase her knowledge and professionalism.
     Evelyn is survived by two sons, Alan of Waterford and Geoff of Marquette and a daughter-in-law Nan of Kewadin, Alan's close friend Diane Vasilko of Sterling Heights, her sister Phyllis of L'Anse, brother Andrew of L'Anse, and sister Ann Marie "Betty" of Tucson AZ; two special nieces Joan and Jacquelyn Johnson, and many nieces and nephews and their children.
     Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 55 years, Ralph Bowman on March 11, 2000. her parents, three brothers; Richard, Donald, and Francis and her sister Rita.
     Visitation was held on Friday Feb. 9, 2007, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 143 Charles Street, and Elk Rapids. A Vigil Service for the Deceased was celebrated at 7 p.m. at the church. Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals was celebrated at Sacred Heart on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007, at 11a.m., with Rev. Robert J. Zuchowski presiding. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery in the spring.
     Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral home.

     Bruce Richard Jacobs, 81, of Houghton Lake, MI, died on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2007 in his home.
     He was born on March 1, 1925 in Mason, MI, to Carl and Nettie (Arend) Jacobs. He married Ruth Caspary on Sept. 21, 1945 in Big Rapids, MI. They moved to Houghton Lake from Howell, MI in 1955.
Bruce served in the Army and graduated from Ferris Institute receiving a BS degree in Business. He owned and operated Jacobs Hardware and The Clothes Tree.
     He donated the Statue of Mary to Our Lady of the Lake Church in honor of his and his wife’s parents. Bruce was a former member of the Houghton Lake Eagles, Houghton Lake Merchants, president of the Houghton Lake Kiwanis, and life member of Houghton Lake Elks.
Bruce is survived by his wife, Ruth Jacobs of Houghton Lake; brother-in-law, Cyril Caspary of L’Anse; sister-in-law, Mary (John) Rast of Wisconsin; six nieces and nephews including Jerry (Mary) McReynolds of Higgins Lake. Also surviving are several cousins in the Mason area.
     Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2007, at 2 p.m. with Rev. Calvin Long officiating. The family received friends from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in Denton Township Cemetery, Prudenville, MI.
     Christler Funeral Home-Prudenville Chapel assisted the family.

Eileen C. Hofbauer

     Bertha T. Borowski, 83, of L'Anse passed away Friday, Feb. 16, 2007, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
     She was born in Perth Amboy, NJ on April 9, 1923 daughter of the late August and Bertha (Piechocinski) Kleban. She attended school in New Jersey. Bertha worked as a seamstress in the clothing industry. She married Joseph Borowski in 1945. Together they owned and operated Borowski's Bar in downtown L'Anse until 1987. Mr. Borowski preceded her in death on March 4, 1989.
     Bertha was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse, and the L'Anse VFW Auxiliary. She enjoyed cooking, playing cards, working crossword puzzles and loved to read novels.
     Mrs. Borowski is survived by her loving son, Leonard Borowski of L'Anse, brother, Al Kleban of California, and sisters, Florence (Tom) Conlin of California and Mary Arboreen of Arizona. Nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by six brothers and sisters.
     A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 19, 2007, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse with Father George Maki, celebrant. Spring interment will take place in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2007 from 6 until 7 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse and for one hour prior to the Mass at church on Monday. Father George Maki will conduct a parish prayer service Sunday evening in the funeral chapel at 7 pm.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse has been entrusted with arrangements. Mrs. Borowski's obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.

     Annabelle May Morrow, 91, of L'Anse, died peacefully, Saturday evening, Feb. 17, 2007, in Baraga County Memorial Hospital's Skilled Nursing Unit.
     She was born on June 25, 1915, in Pequaming, a daughter of the late Christian and Nora (Nelsen) Almli. Annabelle was raised in the area and was a 1933 L'Anse High School graduate.
     On June 27, 1941 she married William "Doc" Morrow in L'Anse and he preceded her in death on Oct. 24, 1993.
     She was employed for many years as a dietician with the State of Michigan in Gaylord. Annabelle and her family returned to L'Anse in 1977 and had resided here until her passing.
     She was a member of United Lutheran Church in L'Anse. Her leisure activities included cooking, baking, reading, playing the organ, spending time with family and discussing politics.
     She is survived by a son, William "Sam" Morrow of L'Anse; daughter, Mary Grace Morrow of Palo Alto, California; brother, Paul "Tutta" Almli of L'Anse; sister, Norma Brown of L'Anse; and several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by four sisters and two brothers.
     There will be no services at this time. A graveside service will be held in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery and announced at a later date.
     The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family. Mrs. Morrow's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     James C. "Jim" Selden, 88, of L'Anse, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2007 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L'Anse following a brief illness.
     He was born in L'Anse on April 10, 1918, son of the late Guy and Selina (Seavoy) Selden. Jim attended school in L'Anse and graduated in 1938. During his high school years he was noted for his football skills.
During WWII he worked at Packard Motor Company in Detroit.  Returning to L'Anse, he was employed by the Celotex Corporation as storeroom keeper until his retirement in 1980. In addition, Jim had been a bartender in many of the local bars over the years. He married the former Mary Donnersberger in August of 1948 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse.
     Jim was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse. His hobbies included hunting, reading, restoring antique furniture, and was a skillful wine maker. Jim will be remembered as a wonderful father, loving husband and devoted family man.
     Mr. Selden is survived by his loving wife, Mary, children, Tom (Cindy) Selden of L'Anse, Daniel (Patti) Selden of Ft. Pierce, FL, Joseph (Gale) Selden of Monroe, MI, Mary (John) Schmidt of L'Anse and Detroit, Regina (Charles) Theriault of Gaylord, MI and Laura Jeske of Gaylord, MI, 20 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, sister, Bootsie Suo of St. Clair Shores, MI and sister-in-law, Madge Selden of Marquette. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his brother and sisters, May, John, Patricia, and Dorothy.
     A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 9, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse with Father Augustin George, celebrant. Spring interment will take place in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2007 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse and for one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Friday. A parish prayer service was held in the funeral chapel on Thursday evening at 7 p.m.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse has been entrusted with arrangements. Mr. Selden’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Bessie L. Mapletoft (Wallin), of Holt, MI, died on Feb. 10, 2007.
She was born on Jan. 6, 1912 in Lake Nebagamon, WI, her family moved to L’Anse in the 1920’s. She married Cecil Mapletoft of Baraga on Sept. 25, 1937. After living in Baraga and Fort Wilkins, they settled in Mason, MI. In 2004, she moved to Holt.
     Bessie is preceded in death by her husband; parents, Charles and Ellen (Rued) Wallin of L’Anse; sisters, Marie (Hans) Knoll of Virginia, MN, Ella (John) Reed of Detroit; brothers, William (Ellen) Wallin of L’Anse, Clifford Wallin and Richard Wallin of Dearborn Heights; brother-in-law, Norman Wrobel of Prudenville, MI; sister-in-law, Edna Wallin of Baraga; and grand nephew, Brian Swartz.
     Survivors include her brother, Albert Wallin of Baraga; sister, Lauretta Wrobel of Dothan, AL; sister-in-law, Evelyn Wallin of Dearborn Heights; nieces, Murretta (John) Beste of Virginia, MN, Anna (William) Swartz of Pequaming, MI, Jane Wallin of Holt, MI, Lorna Wallin of Riverview, MI, Ellen Benton of Centerline, MI, Sandra Wrobel of Taylor, MI, Carolyn (Scott) Pivirotto of Ann Arbor, MI; nephews, Louis (Doris) Knoll of Virginia, MN, Richard (Dawn) Wallin of Farmington Hills, MI, Charles (Celeste) Wallin of South Lyon, MI, Norman (Teresa) Wrobel of Dothan, AL; 21 grand nephews and nieces; 27 great nephews and nieces; one great great niece.
     A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2007, at 4 p.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 621 S. Jefferson, Mason, MI. The family will receive friends at the funeral home two hours prior to the service. Those desiring may make contributions to your local Humane Society in memory of Mrs. Bessie Mapletoft.

     Michael R. Whitty, 43, formerly of L’Anse, died Friday afternoon, Feb. 9, 2007, at Maple Manor Nursing Center in Ontonagon, following a lengthy illness.
     He was born on Feb. 11, 1963, in L’Anse, a son of Terry Whitty and Carol (Tolonen) Tahtinen. Michael was raised in L’Anse then moved to Bruce Crossing where he resided for several years.
     He was employed as a laborer with the Michigan State Parks Department prior to his illness.
     Michael was a good artist and enjoyed music and singing.
He is survived by his mother, Carol Tahtinen of Keweenaw Bay; father, Terry Whitty of L’Anse; sister, Amanda (Terry) Schoneman of Merrill, WI; nieces, Amber, Marissa and Sydney; nephew, Nikolaus; and numerous aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
     Visitation was held on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2007 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home in L’Anse. A funeral service was held at 1 p.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Augustin George officiating. Interment will be in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery in the spring.
     Mr. Whitty’s obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Gerald R. Mattson, 64, of Pelkie passed away suddenly Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007, at Munising Memorial Hospital, Munising.
     He was born in Detroit on Nov. 26, 1942, son of the late Ralph and Helmi (Koski) Mattson. Gerald attended school in Baraga and graduated in 1961. He was an over the road trucker for various trucking companies. Gerald most recently was a bus driver for the Baraga Area Schools until his retirement.
     He was a member of the Teamsters Local 328, a member and past president of the Otter Lake Sportsmen's Club in Tapiola, and the Otter Lake baseball team. Gerald was a member and past president of the Pelkie, Baraga, and L'Anse Hockey Association. He was also a member of the former Kyro Evangelical Church in Pelkie. Gerald enjoyed hockey, fishing, hunting, being in the outdoors and taking saunas. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren.
     Mr. Mattson is survived by his loving children, Ralph (Rhonda) Mattson of Toledo, OH, and Craig (Tammy) Mattson of L'Anse, grandchild, Landen, step-grandchildren, Joslyn and Ricky, sisters, Nancy (Ralph) Turunen of Arnheim, Patricia (Paul) Tussing of Chassell, and Priscilla (Paul) Monette of Chassell, his loving companion, Ann Maki of Pelkie, and her children, Tina and Todd and grandchildren, Britney, Dallas, Hunter, Fabian, and Kylee. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.
     Funeral services for Mr. Mattson will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Pastor Dean Franz officiating. Spring interment will take place in the Pelkie Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral chapel on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2007 from 5 until 8 p.m. and for one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Following the service on Thursday, the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with arrangements. Mr. Mattson's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Kenneth Raymond Syrjala, aged 69, went to be with his Lord Jesus on Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2007, after an eight year battle with cancer. Ken and his surviving wife Linda were married almost 48 years and both had been residents of Ionia, MI for 50 years.
     Ken was born in Watton on Feb. 23, 1937, the son of William and Gertrude Syrjala. He grew up in L’Anse and graduated from Baraga High School in 1955. Since then, he visited family, friends, and the homestead as often as possible and always headed for the sauna at the first opportunity.
     Ken is survived by his wife, Linda and their five children: Peggy and her husband Greg "Woody" Woodard of Mackinac Island, MI and San Antonio, TX, their children Sunshine Woodard, Jason and Sasha Woodard, and Zac and Elizabeth Woodard.
     Lynn and her husband David Taylor, their children Janna and Abigail; Derek Syrjala and his wife Carrie, their children Parker, Calvin, Emma and Addison; Darin Syrjala and his wife Lynette, their children Samuel, Larissa, Alexa, and Levi; Greg Syrjala and his wife Melissa, and their son Drake.
     Ken's siblings: Robert and Jan Syrjala of Flint, MI, Shirley and Ken Albright of Ionia, MI, Richard and Alice Syrjala of Grafton, MA, Jim and Mary Syrjala of Lyons, MI, Edsel and Theresa Syrjala of Ishpeming. Many nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Ken was preceded in death by a son, Douglas Wayne Syrjala, his parents William and Gertrude Syrjala, sister Loraine Buckner, and nephew Johnny Syrjala.
     Ken worked for the United States Post Office in Ionia for 30 years and retired from there in 1995. He also raised apples on his farm for 20 years.
     Ken was an avid antique collector, loved attending auctions, collecting coins and fishing lures. He was a true sportsman: hunting, fishing, and attending his children's baseball and basketball games. For many years he was a Little League coach and loved children.
     Ken was a longtime member of Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church and served as deacon and pastor's helper, Sunday school teacher, and many other positions through the years. He always provided a welcome to guests and a kind word to everyone.
     Funeral services officiated by Pastors Darren Tharp and Larry Frye were held at Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2007 at noon. Visitation was at Lake Funeral Home, 3521 S. State Rd., Ionia, MI, from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, 2007 and again from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2007 at Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church, 405 N. Jefferson St., Ionia, MI.
     Private interment will take place at Balcom Cemetery in the spring.
     In lieu of flowers, please make any memorial gifts to Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church or Ionia Hospice.
     Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com

     Mary Sofia Honkala, 91, of Kaleva, died Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2007, at Orchard Hill AFC Home in Brethren. She was born on Jan. 22, 1916, in Kaleva, the daughter of John and Naima (Eskonsipo) Rajala.
     On Nov. 16, 1940, in Detroit, Mary married Wilho M. Honkala, of Pelkie who preceded her in death in 1981. They lived in Detroit and Kaleva before moving to Pelkie where they operated a dairy farm until the mid 1950’s. They moved to Detroit where Mary worked for the National Bank of Detroit as teller, general teller, and assistant branch manager for 20 years before retiring to Kaleva.
     Mary is survived by her son John (Margaret) Honkala, grandson Matthew (Suzanne) Honkala, two sisters and a brother.
     Mary was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband; three sisters; and one brother.
     Funeral service was conducted at 1 p.m., Friday, Feb. 3, 2007, at the Terwilliger Funeral Home, in Kaleva, with Pastor Donald Stroup officiating. Interment will be in the Pelkie Cemetery in the spring with arrangements by Reid Funeral Service and Chapel. Visitation was held Friday from 11a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.
     Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.
     The Terwilliger Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

     Carolyn D. Anderson, 69, of Marquette and formerly of L'Anse, passed away at her residence Friday, Jan. 26, 2007 in Marquette. She had been in ill health for some time.
     Carolyn was born in Marquette, on Nov. 12, 1937 daughter of the late Leonard R. and Ingrid (Mattson) Bartelli. She attended school in Marquette and graduated in 1955. Carolyn attended Michigan State University and graduated in 1962 from Northern Michigan University with a BS degree in education.
     She had served on the board of the L'Anse Public Library and the Superiorland Library Co-op. Carolyn taught first grade at the CJ Sullivan School from 1969 until her retirement in 1992. She was fondly known as "Mrs. Selinger" during her teaching years. Carolyn married Bob Anderson on July 28, 1991 in Lake Tahoe, NV.
     Mrs. Anderson is survived by her loving husband, Robert; son, Jeff (Beth) Selinger and son Zack of Soldotna, AK; daughter, Diane Selinger of Chassell and children, Jenna and Max Miron and Jake Rilei; step children, Susan (Stephen) Thronson of Potomac, MD, and daughters, Claire and Alaine; Carol (Laszlo) Pallai of Newbury, CA and their children, Istvan and Matyas; Laura (Aaron) Smith of Las Vegas, NV; daughter-in-law, Marylor Selinger of Santa Rosa, CA and daughter Jessica, brothers, Barry (Pam) Bartelli of Vulcan, MI, and Barton (Marjean) Bartelli of Marquette. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. She was preceded in death by her son, Glenn Selinger.
A memorial service for Mrs. Anderson will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Father Ben Paris officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral chapel on Thursday from noon until time of the service. Following the service the family invites friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
     The family has entrusted arrangements to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse. Mrs. Anderson's obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net.
     The family would like to thank the Lake Superior Hospice Association with a special thank you to Becky and Kathleen.

     Donna M. Corp, 52, of L’Anse, left this world to go to the next following a short battle with cancer on Friday, Jan. 26, 2007.
     She was born in Detroit on Dec. 18, 1954 daughter of the late Lynn and Lorraine (Nephew) Griffis. Donna was raised in Detroit and moved to Harrison, MI in 1969 where she attended and graduated from Harrison High School. From 1973 to 1986 Donna was employed as a clerk for American Natural Resources, a natural gas company in Harrison, MI.
     She was a Girl Scout leader for many years. It was in Harrison where Donna met her husband Lamont “Kip” Corp and started their family. Donna and Kip also opened the Enchanted Rock Goldsmithing, which stood in existence for over 20 years. After short stays in Phoenix and Las Vegas, the Corp’s headed north to L’Anse to begin the next chapter of their lives. Donna enjoyed working at the Holiday Gas Station in L’Anse and taking her dog, Cleo to the water. She also loved to do bead work and paint the Lake Superior shoreline.
     Mrs. Corp is survived by her loving husband of 29 years, Lamont Corp II of L’Anse, her three children, Lamont III (Jennifer) Corp of Battle Creek, MI, Marcella Corp of Mt. Pleasant, MI, and Candice Corp of L’Anse, her only grandson, Brecken Corp, father-in-law, Lamont Corp I, sister-in-law, Melode Corp Leavitt, and her niece and nephew, Shannon and Shawn Griffis. She was preceded in death by her brothers, George and Ronald Griffis.
     A memorial service for Mrs. Corp was held at 3 p.m., Monday, Jan. 29, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Father George Maki officiating. The family received friends at the funeral chapel on Monday from 2 p.m. until time of the service.
     The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse. Donna’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Doris “Dolly” Almli Ruona, age 86, of L’Anse passed away suddenly and peacefully at home Monday morning, Jan. 29, 2007.
     She was born in Pequaming on Nov. 1, 1920 daughter of the late Christian and Nora O. (Nielsen) Almli. Dolly attended school in L’Anse and graduated in 1938.
     She married Leo Ruona in Chassell on Nov. 14, 1941. He preceded her in death in 1991. Dolly was a member of United Lutheran Church, L’Anse, and the L’Anse golf Club. She was an avid golf player, she enjoyed coffee klatching with friends, the Green Bay Packers and the Detroit Pistons.
     Mrs. Ruona is survived by her loving children, Matt Ruona of L’Anse, Jean (Jim) Johnson of Aura, Jane (Larry) LeClaire of Big Lake, and Tina (Rick) Hiltunen of Lakeville, MN, grandchildren, Ann, Sara, David, Trina, Christa, Krystle, and Amber, great-grandchildren, Jacob and Hanna Hiltunen, brother, Tutta Almli, sisters, Annabelle Morrow and Norma Brown. Several nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Ruona will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, 2007 at the United Lutheran Church, L’Anse with Pastor Scott Williams officiating. The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday from 3 p.m. until time of the service.
     Memorials in Mrs. Ruona’s honor may be directed to the United Lutheran Church, L’Anse or the L’Anse Golf Club. Envelopes will be available at church.
     Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse. Mrs. Ruona’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net
 

     Louis Testen, 95, of L'Anse, died Saturday afternoon, Jan. 27, 2007, at Bell Memorial Hospital in Ishpeming, MI.
     He was born on June 26, 1911 in Calumet, a son of the late John and Theresa (Gastnich) Testen. He moved to the L'Anse area with his family as a child and had been a lifelong area resident.
     Louis worked as a young man in the CCC logging camps, for the Ford Motor Company in Pequaming and on a surveying crew for the Sate of Michigan. Louis and his brother, John were logging partners until 1974. He also helped his brother manage the Testen Farm until 1989. He resided on the farm until October 2004 before relocating to Ishpeming to live with his niece. Louis entered the Mather Nursing Center in Ishpeming in April of 2006.
     Louis enjoyed reading the newspaper and watching television, especially the "Price Is Right" and "Lawrence Welk Show". He also enjoyed playing cards, especially 31. More than anything Louis enjoyed visiting with people and reminiscing about old times. Louis will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
     He is survived by a sister, Mary Foy; brothers, Albert (Marie) Testen and Alben Testen; sister-in-law, Amelia Testen; many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by brothers, Stanley, Frank, Rudy, Joseph, John and August.
     Visitation will be held on Friday, Feb. 2, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse. A parish prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2007 at 11 a.m. in Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church with   Rev. Augustin George officiating. Visitation will also be held for one hour prior to the mass in the church. Interment will be in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery in the spring.
     Mr. Testen's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Gertrude L. Beck, age 88, of Askel, passed away at Bayside Village in L’Anse, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2007.
     She was born on March 18, 1918 in Hancock, daughter of the late Aaro and Ida (Eilola) Paavola. Gertrude worked and lived in both Chicago and Detroit before returning to the UP in the late 1940’s. She was married to Arnold Beck, and together they farmed and raised their sons in Askel.
     Gertrude was preceded in eternal life by her loving husband, Arnold, in 1972. She earned her high school diploma in 1974. Gertrude worked for the Western Upper Peninsula District Health Department as a home health aide from the mid-1970’s until her retirement at age 70. She enjoyed visiting with the many people to whom she provided care and assistance during her tenure in the health department.
     Gertrude enjoyed reading and visiting with family and friends. She always offered visitors to her home a cup of coffee, something sweet to accompany it, and the opportunity to visit and share news and stories about friends, neighbors, and family.
     Gertrude is the beloved mother of Charles (Karen) Beck of Dearborn, MI and John (Darlene) Beck of Askel. She was a loving and devoted grandmother to Eric, Kristin (Chris Maxson) and Lauren. Gertrude was preceded in eternal life by her dear siblings; sister Elma, brother, John, half sister, Impi, and half brother Carl.
     Funeral services for Mrs. Beck will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, 2007 from Mission United Lutheran Church, Pelkie with Pastor John Autio officiating. Spring interment will take place in the Askel Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the church on Friday evening from 6 p.m. until time of the service.
     Memorials in Mrs. Beck’s honor may be directed to the Arthritis Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the church.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Mrs. Beck’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Nancy M. Cline, 61, of Baraga, died Thursday morning, Jan. 25, 2007, at Bayside Village in L'Anse.
     She was born on June 6, 1945, in Elo, a daughter of the late John and Lempi (Kuopus) Byykkonen and had been a lifelong area resident. On Oct. 12, 1974 she married Benjamin S. Cline and he preceded her in death on May 30, 1992.
     Nancy was employed for several years at Karvakko's Store in Tapiola. She was a member of the Otter Lake Sportsman's Club. Nancy enjoyed crocheting, trips to the casino and spending time with her grandchildren.
     She is survived by three daughters, Lisa (Jason Messer) Byykkonen of Baraga, Lynn (Joe) LaFernier of Keweenaw Bay and Lori (Rodney) Tervo of Keweenaw Bay; grandchildren, Tom and Brandi Denomie, Brittney Heikkinen, Tara LaFernier, Taylor and Jessica Tervo; brothers, Howard of Baraga, Art (Irene) of Hancock, Wesley (Ann) of Hancock and Harold (Donna) Byykkonen of Chassell; sisters, Florence Ketola of Baraga, Ruth (Bob) Maki of Superior Location, Esther Bohto of Chassell, Alma (Glen) Eilola of Pelkie and Sally (Gary) Johnson of EuClaire, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Edward and Bob Byykkonen.
     Visitation was held on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2007 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home. A funeral service was held at 1 p.m. in the funeral home with Rev. John Autio officiating. Interment will be in the Elo Cemetery in the spring.
     Mrs. Cline's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

Janet Maanika

     Janet Maanika, 50 a resident of Calumet, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday morning, Jan. 27, 2007, at her home.
     She was born on Dec. 25, 1956 in Detroit a daughter of the late George and Ileen (DeLarye) Phillips. Janet attended the L’Anse High School graduating with the class of 1975.
     She was married to Gary Supanich Sr. in May of 1977 and he preceded her in death on Dec. 1, 1997. She was later married to Jim Maanika and he preceded her in death on Dec. 28, 2005.
     Janet was employed at the Ojibwa Casino in the Bears Den Restaurant and also as a cage supervisor until she retired due to disability in 2000.
     She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother-in-law Michael South. Surviving are a daughter, Jennifer Supanich of Marquette; a son, Gary Supanich Jr. of Calumet; two sisters, Lynn South of L’Anse and Paula Tormala of Gwinn; four nephews, Phillip South, Jeff Tormala, Jimmy (Brandi) Tormala and David Tormala. Numerous cousins and friends also survive.
     A memorial service was held on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2007 at 11 a.m. in the Erickson Crowley Funeral Home in Calumet with the Rev. Allan Goodrich officiating. The Erickson Crowley Funeral Home in Calumet is assisting the family and friends may leave condolences for the family at www.ericksoncrowley.com

     William Patrick "Bill" Sterbenz, 35, of Toma WI, formerly of Baraga, passed away suddenly Monday, Jan. 15, 2007 in Toma, WI.
He was born in L'Anse on Aug. 27, 1971 son of William Paul and Brenda (Hill) Sterbenz. Bill graduated from Baraga High School in 1989. He was a member of the Michigan National Guard and served in the US Army during the Gulf War in the Food Service Department until his discharge in 1993.
     Bill had lived in Toma, for eight years and was employed in the shipping department for the I.G. Cardinal Manufacturing Company. He was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church, Baraga, and was a member of the Toma VFW post. Bill enjoyed fishing, hunting, motorcycles and especially spending time with his nephew and his family members.
     Bill is survived by his loving parents, William and Brenda Sterbenz of Baraga, sister, Jennifer (Tom) Collins of L'Anse, maternal grandparents, Melvin and Mildred Hill of Baraga, and nephews, Jordan and Brody Collins of L’Anse. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents.
     Funeral services for Bill were held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 19, 2007 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Father Augustin George officiating. Spring interment will take place in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral home on Friday from 10 a.m. until time of the service. Following the service, the family invited friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room located at the funeral home.
     Bill’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net  The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with arrangements.

     Josephine M. Mihelich, 94, of L'Anse, passed away at Bayside Village, L'Anse Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2007 following a lengthy illness.
She had been a resident at Bayside for two years. Josephine was born in Dollar Bay, on Sept. 6, 1912 daughter of the late Thomas and Katherine (Yaeger) Bobich. She attended school in L'Anse. Josephine married John Mihelich and he preceded her in death in 1997. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse. Josephine enjoyed baking, making pasties, rummage sales, visiting friends, and rides in the woods. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren.
     Mrs. Mihelich is survived by her loving children, Tony (Ilene) LaPlante of Baraga, John Mihelich of Muskegon, MI, and Helen Stein of L'Anse, 10 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, 15 great great grandchildren, and brother, Anthony Bobich of Kalamazoo, MI. She was preceded in death by one son, two grandsons, and seven brothers.
Funeral services for Mrs. Mihelich were held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, 2007 from the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Father Augustin George officiating. Spring interment will take place in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral chapel on Saturday from 1 p.m. until time of the service. Following the service, the family invited friends to join them for fellowship and luncheon in the Harrington Gathering room, located at the funeral home.
Mrs. Mihelich’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel with arrangements.

     Lawrence W. Collins, 94, of L’Anse, passed away Thursday Jan. 18, 2007 at Bayside Village, L’Anse following a lengthy illness.
     He had been a resident at Bayside Village for two years. Lawrence was born in Keweenaw Bay, on Dec. 9, 1912 son of the late John and Marie (Matthews) Collins. He attended school in Assinins. Lawrence worked for an engine manufacturing company as a die maker. He married Helen Howard in 1933 and she preceded him in death in 1971. Lawrence married Libby Caine in Waukesha, WI in 1975 and she preceded him in death in 1991. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse. Lawrence enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, walking, being by the water, traveling, and had a great love for animals.
     Mr. Collins is survived by his loving children, Richard (Genevieve) Collins of Waukesha, Michael Collins of Brookfield, WI, Mary (Harry) Conley of Lima, OH, and Suzanne (Tom) Dankert of Hartland, WI, nine grandchildren and many great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one daughter and one brother.
     A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 22, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse with Father George Maki, celebrant. Spring interment will take place in the Baraga Cemetery. The family received friends at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of the Mass. Memorials in Mr. Collins’ honor may be directed to the St. Vincent DePaul Society.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with arrangements. Mr. Collin’s obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net

     Corinne E. "Honey" Nordstrom, 87, of L'Anse passed away Thursday, Jan. 18, 2007 at Bayside Village, L'Anse following a lengthy illness.
     She was born in Hancock, on Nov. 13, 1919 the youngest child of the late William T. and Anne (Dooley) Tarbox. Honey attended Hancock schools.
     She married Irving E. Nordstrom in L'Anse on April 8, 1938 and has been a resident of L'Anse since then. Irving preceded her in death in 1984. Honey was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L'Anse.
     Mrs. Nordstrom is survived by her loving children, William "Bob" (Virginia) Nordstrom of Clio, MI., Thomas (Jennie) Nordstrom, Michael (Evey) Nordstrom, and Stephan Nordstrom all of L'Anse, eight grandchildren, Kristin (Dan) Zubiena of Laurium, Timothy (Merrill) Nordstrom of Oxford, MS, Stephanie (David) Pirkola, Geoff Nordstrom, Julie (Brian) Kissel, Michael J. Nordstrom Jr., Lisa Nordstrom of L'Anse, and Amber Pelon of Baraga, nine great grandchildren, Eli and Will Nordstrom of Oxford, MS, Kassidy Pirkola, Kelsey Ross, Lucas, Alex, and Zakary Kissel of L'Anse, and Hunter and Riley Sue Pelon of Baraga. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Corinne Anne Nordstrom, two brothers, William and Raynard Tarbox, and five sisters, Berniece Zachau, Crescence Simonson, Anastacia O’Connell, Mary Kramer, and Dorothy Vollwerth.
     Family services for Mrs. Nordstrom will be held at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse. Mrs. Nordstrom’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.rfsc.net  The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with arrangements.

     Lt. Col. Phillip H. Smith, Sr., USAF (Ret.) age 81, beloved husband of Irene Erickson Smith, passed away Saturday, Dec. 23, 2006, at Palmetto Health Baptist in Columbia, SC.
     He and his wife Irene were former residents of Houghton and L'Anse for several years.
     Mr. Smith was born on April 24, 1925, in Riparius, Warren County, NY, the son of the late Gilbert E. and Hazel M. Smith.
     He grew up in Riparius, graduating from Pottersville Central High School in 1943. He joined the Army Air Corps in August 1943 where he served as a radio operator on B-17 and B-29 aircraft before attending Officer Candidate School in 1949. He served in Korea in the 1st Shoran Beacon Squadron and later attended avionics/weapons school, serving in the 3081st Aviation Depot Group in South Dakota, the 38th TAC Missile Wing in Germany and 9th Air Force at Shaw AFB, S.C. He received a Bachelor of General Education degree under the Bootstrap Program from the University of Omaha in 1961 and a Masters degree from the University of South Carolina.
     Upon retirement from the Air Force in 1968, he became an educator in Sumter School District 2 where he served as a teacher, guidance counselor, and an elementary school principal. He was a member of the Air Force Association, The Retired Officer Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Air Force Museum Foundation.
     Surviving in addition to his wife are: One daughter, Mary Waldrep and her husband David of Edgewood, NM; Two sons, John Smith and his wife Mary of Pittsburgh, PA, and Phillip Smith, Jr., of Sumter, SC; Five grandchildren, Melissa Armenta and her husband Tim, Joel Waldrep, Erin Smith, Kelsey Smith and Connor Smith; and Four great-grandchildren, Jayme Waldrep, Kayley Waldrep, Richard Armenta, and Heather Armenta.
     He was preceded in death by his sister, Phyllis and a great-grandchild, Tyler Waldrep.
     Graveside services with full military honors will be held at a later date at Evergreen Cemetery in L'Anse.
     Memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, S.C. Chapter, 1247 Lake Murray Blvd., Irmo, SC 29063 or to the American Cancer Society, 128 Stonemark Lane, Columbia, SC 29210.
     Online memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.bullockfuneralhome.com.
     The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.

     Daniel L. Seavoy, 67, of L’Anse, passed away Saturday morning, Jan. 13, 2007, at his residence. He had been ill for several months.
     Dan was born in L’Anse on Sept. 12, 1939, son of the late Walter and Eleanor (Skuggen) Seavoy. A lifetime resident of the area, Dan graduated from L’Anse High School. Following high school, he sailed the Great Lakes aboard ore carriers for a few years.
     On April 19, 1958, he married the former Geraldine Collins in L’Anse. Dan was employed as the maintenance supervisor for the Celotex Corporation until his retirement in 1996, after 40 years of service.
     He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in L’Anse. Dan was a man of many interests, including hunting, trapping, fishing and hiking. Since 1963, Dan had been a search and rescue scuba diver for the Baraga County Sheriff Department. Dan loved people and his camp in Skanee was the scene of many parties and fun get togethers.
     Danny is survived by his loving wife Gerry, sons, Gregory (Cindy) of L’Anse, David (Amber) of Skanee, grandchildren Sarah, Kelley, Dustin and Dylan, great-grandchildren, Ava and Stella. He is also survived by brothers, Scott (Jeanne) Seavoy and Duke (Carol) Seavoy both of Skanee and a sister Emy (Larry) LaPlante of L’Anse. Numerouse nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.
     A celebration of Dan’s life will be held later in the spring. The Reid   Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, has been entrusted with arrangements.
     Dan’s obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.rfsc.net

     Mildred M. Almli, 87, of Livonia, died on Jan. 6, 2007.
     She was the beloved wife of the late Charles Almli and Perry Bergerson. Dearest mother of Robert and (Beverly) Bergerson. Dear sister of the late Frances Mihelich, Arthur Boyer, Anthony Boyer, Clifford Boyer and Florence Martinac. Dearest grandmother of James Bergerson and Janet Holland.
     Burial in L’Anse later in the year. Arrangements by the Taylor Chapel of the Howe-Peterson Funeral Home, 9800 S. Telegraph Road, Taylor, MI.

     John E. Woodward, 89, of Sun City West, AZ passed away Wednesday evening, Jan. 10, 2007 at Del Webb Memorial Hospital, Sun City West, AZ, following a lengthy illness.
     He was born in Merton, WI on May 22, 1917 son of the late Albert Edward and Lily (Nielsen) Woodward.
     John worked for the McCullough Corporation in California for 41 years and was vice president of manufacturing. Following his retirement in 1979 he moved to Arizona. He married the former Katherine Vuk of L’Anse and she preceded him in death in 1992. On Oct. 29, 1994 he married the former Rosemary Lee at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse. John was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse and Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Sun City West, AZ. In his younger days he enjoyed sailing and woodworking activities.
     Mr. Woodward is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary, children, Albert (Katherine) Woodward of Prior Lake, MN, Jacqueline (Richard) Kostick of Golden Valley, MN, step-children, Steven Georgeff of Madison, WI, Brian (Susan) Georgeff of Oostburg, WI, Dale (Karla) Georgeff of Grafton, WI, Connie (William) Nielsen of Port Washington, WI, step-son-in-law James Bersch, seven grandchildren, eight step-grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by one brother, one sister, one grandson, one stepdaughter, and one step-grandchild.
     A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse with Father George Maki, celebrant. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of the Mass. Spring interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The family has entrusted the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with arrangements. Memorials in Mr. Woodward’s honor may be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse.
     John’s obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.rfsc.net 

     Mary Catherine Koskinen, 92, of Baraga, died Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 10, 2007, with her family by her side, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital's Skilled Nursing Unit.
     She was born on Jan. 6, 1915, in Hancock, a daughter of the late Richard A. and Gertrude (Ongie) Cote and had been a lifelong area resident. Mary was a 1932 Baraga High School graduate. On Jan. 9, 1943 she married Onnie K. Koskinen in Baraga and he preceded her in death on May 11, 1992.
     She was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church in Baraga, St. Ann's Altar Society, Third Order of St. Francis, the Lady Forester's, American Legion Post #444 Auxiliary and the L'Anse Golf Club.
     Catherine's favorite room in her home was her kitchen. She loved to cook for her family and neighbors. Those who visited her always left her home well fed.
     Catherine is survived by a daughter, Mary Kay (Tom) Clisch; sons, Jim (Lucille) Koskinen, Michael (Blanche) Koskinen of Baraga, Pat (Mary) Koskinen of Iron Mountain and Robert (Sally) Koskinen of Baraga; grandchildren, Sue Skytta, Shellie Usitalo, TJ Clisch, Stacey Clisch, Jimmer Koskinen, Julie Ruotsala, John, Mike, Craig, Kim, Jason, Carey, Mark, Scott and Gary Koskinen; 23 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, James Cote and a sister, Helen Cote.
     Visitation was held on Friday, Jan. 12, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse. A parish prayer service was at 7 p.m. in the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2007 at 11 a.m. in St. Ann's Catholic Church in Baraga with Rev. Augustin George and Rev. Norman Clisch   Concelebrating. Visitation was held for one hour prior to the mass in the church. Interment will be held in the Baraga Cemetery in the spring.
     Mrs. Koskinen's obituary can also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com

     Norraine Emmaline “Emmy” Kosturik, 81, of Auburn, IN, died Friday, Jan. 12, 2007, at Laurels of DeKalb, Butler, IN. She was born in Baraga on Sept. 30, 1925 to Mose and Exilia (Sylvester) Bellaire. They are both deceased.
    She worked at McNeal’s Black Angus and also the Village Inn both in Grand Haven, MI. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Auburn. She was active in the Legion of Mary and Harvest House both through church.
     She married John P. Hurns on April 23, 1951, he died on Jan. 22, 1968. She married Louis J. Kosturik on Aug. 30, 1969 in Grand Haven, MI. He died on Feb. 21, 1999. She is survived by a daughter, Patricia Hurns Koeppe and her husband Kurt Koeppe of Auburn. There are five grandchildren, Collette Johnson, Terri Gilbert, Angela Secrist, Chelsea Merkle and Abbe Harpp. Nine great grandchildren. Three sisters, Jeanine Pelto of Baraga, Marie Tahtinen of Troy, MI and June Allm of Tulsa, OK. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by six brothers and two sisters.
     Services were at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Auburn. Visitation was from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 15, at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, Auburn, and also one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. A rosary was recited at 4 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Auburn Catholic Cemetery. Preferred memorials can be directed to DeKalb County chapter of the American Cancer Society or a charity of the donor’s choice.

     Henry A. Vervisch, 70, of Covington, passed away Friday, Jan. 5, 2007, at Marquette General Hospital following a 10 month illness.
Henry was born on Aug. 2, 1936 in Detroit, son of the late Henry J. and Doris (Hart) Vervisch. He was raised in Detroit and attended area schools.
     Henry was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps after serving four years. He was employed by the US Postal service as an accountant until his retirement in 1991. On June 17, 1972, he married the former Peggy Maki in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in L'Anse.
     He was a former member of St. Alfred's Catholic Church in Redford, a current member of St John's Lutheran Church in Redford and an associate member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Covington. He was a member of the Covington Post of the Am-Vets. Moving to Covington in 1992, Henry was a counter for the Ojibwa Casino in Baraga. He enjoyed flowers, gardening and riding his lawn mower. He was devoted to watching old-time movies and loved talking to all that he met.
     Henry is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Peggy, his son Ken (April) Vervisch of Alston, grandson, Nathaniel, brothers Robert of Oldsmar, FL, Douglas (Kathy) Vervisch of Inkster, MI, sister-in-law Elaine Vervisch of Hawaii, brother-in-law Howard Maki of Romulus, MI, and several nieces and nephews. A brother, Ronald, preceded him in death.
     A memorial funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2007, from Bethany Lutheran Church in Covington with Rev. Scott Williams officiating. The family greeted friends at the church from 1 p.m. until the time of services. Spring interment will take place in the Covington Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Henry's honor may be directed to the family.
     The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse, assisted the family with arrangements. Henry's obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.rfsc.net

     Patricia Lee Imig, of Vernon Hills, IL, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007, in Libertyville, IL.
     She was born on April 21, 1944, in Baraga to Lawrence and Leona (nee LaCosse) Denomie. She lived in Vernon Hills, IL for eight years. She had previously lived in DePere, WI for 14 years and before that in the greater Milwaukee area for more than 20 years.
     Patricia attended Marquette University and was a career professional engaged in securing grants and funding for Marquette University, Cystic Fibrosis, Cerebral Palsy and organizations dedicated to providing shelter and protection to victims of family violence.
     She is survived by her husband, Robert and by brothers, Lawrence Denomie Jr. and Robert Denomie and sisters, Joan Bemis and Carlota Beauprey all of Baraga, and sisters, Deloris Eberl and Betty Villwock of Milwaukee, WI.
     Funeral services will be on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2007, at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Visitation from 4 p.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to the University of Chicago, Pulmonary Hypertension, 5841 Maryland Ave., Room B 604-MC6080, Chicago, IL 60637 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
     Arrangements were handled by Schmidt and Bartelt, A.A. Schmidt and Sons, Funeral and Cremation Services, N84 W17937 Menomonee Ave., Menomonee Falls, WI.

     Shirley Irene Jeanette Byykkonen, 66, was received into the loving arms of her Heavenly Father on Wednesday Jan. 3, 2007 at the Mather Nursing Center where she has resided since Sept. 1, 2006.
     She was born on Dec. 7, 1940 in Hancock, the youngest and 14th child of the late Arvo and Lydia (Moilanen) Pesola. Shirley graduated from Doelle High School in 1958. She worked as a keypunch operator at Detroit Edison.
     She married Roy Byykkonen on Sept. 2, 1961. They celebrate 45 joyous years of married life. Together they raised seven children. During their retirement years together Shirley and Roy ministered at the Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette.
     Shirley was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who left a rich legacy of a bold and vibrant faith in Jesus. Her habits of daily Bible Reading and Prayer are gifts that her family treasure. Her generosity was known to be expressed always with an extra place setting at the table and whatever her hand held, it was offered to others.
     Shirley is survived by her husband, Roy Byykkonen Sr. of Ishpeming; seven children - Susan Bradbury of Iron Mountain, Roy (Amy) Byykkonen Jr. of Seattle, WA, Pam (Ken) Matheson of Giese, MN, Carol (John) Redders of Hartford, WI, Mary (Wayne) Wilmes of Omro, WI, John Byykkonen of Stevens Point, WI, and Patsy (Rich) Lusardi of Ishpeming; 15 grandchildren, Josiah, Trenton, Emmalee and Elliott Bradbury, Peter Byykkonen, Jaron and Janessa Matheson, Micaela, Hannah, and Michael Redders, James, Steven, and Holly Wilmes, and Stephanie and Kaylee Lusardi; three brothers - Arnold (Sylvia) Pesola of Sault Ste. Marie, Albert (Florence) Pesola of Hurontown, Kenneth Pesola of Covington; three sisters - Ruth Kemppainen of Ontonagon, Helen Karsama of Plantation, FL and Esther (Gilbert) Juntunen of Tapiola as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by two sister-in-laws, Helen (Raymond) Pesola and Sylvia (Gordon) Pesola.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, Arvo and Lydia Pesola; five brothers - Raymond, Arvo, Gordon, Walter and Aale Pesola; two sisters - Rosella Jalkanen and Maida Toro; and two infant grandchildren - Davin and Lydia Bradbury.
      The Eastwood Apostolic Lutheran Church in Negaunee will host both the visitation and Homegoing Celebration Service were on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2007 with the Rev. Dale Niskanen to officiating.   Viewing was from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church. A luncheon was served at the church immediately following the services. There will be a spring burial at the Elo Cemetery.
     The family is assisted by Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home.

     Jenifer Ruth Clement passed away on Dec. 31, 2006, at Methodist South Hospital in Memphis, TN.
     She was born in Denver, CO on April 26, 1961. She was a 1979 graduate of Wheat Ridge High School in Wheat Ridge, CO and a graduate of Oklahoma State University School of Architecture in 1983.  She was the daughter of Oiva and Nancy Harju of Golden, CO.
In 1994 she married Howard Clement in Seattle, WA. She was the grand daughter of the late Jacob and Impi Harju of Aura and Helmi Luopa of L’Anse and Oscar Koski of Lake Linden.
     She is survived by her husband and her parents and a brother Tom Harju of Denver, Co. She and her husband resided in Southaven, MS.
     She was cremated and her ashes will be brought to Michigan in the spring at which time there will be a memorial service.

     Warren E. Flinchum, 85, of Sidnaw, died Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2006 at Bayside Village in L'Anse.
     He was born, June 2, 1921, in Elton, WI, a son of the late Robert and Mary (Jones) Flinchum. Warren's family moved to Sidnaw early in his youth and he had been a lifelong area resident.
     Warren was self-employed for many years as a carpenter. He was also a member of the Mason's.
     He is survived by a companion, Laurie Rollif of Covington; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     A funeral service was held on Friday, Dec. 29, 2006 at 1 p.m. in the Sidnaw United Methodist Church with Rev. John Henry officiating. Visitation was held for one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the Sidnaw Cemetery.
     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Sidnaw United Methodist Church.
     The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.
Mr. Flinchum's obituary may also be viewed at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com