Leona Gustafson

Obituary of Leona Gustafson Green Bay/HancockLeona Katherine (Pyykkonen) Gustafson, 77, former resident of Hancock, Michigan died peacefully at her residence in Green Bay, Wisconsin on January 20, 2012. Leona was born July 16, 1934 in Hancock to Carl and Kate Pyykkonen. She graduated from Central High School in Detroit in 1952 and received her degree from Suomi College in Hancock in 1954. On September 25, 1954 Leona was married to Gordon A. Gustafson in Hancock. After living in the Detroit area the couple returned to the Copper Country where they raised their family. Leona was employed as an Executive Secretary at Michigan Technological University until retiring in 1983. Following retirement, Leona and Gordon enjoyed spending their winters in South Padre Island, Texas and their summers at their residence in Hancock.Leona was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, active on the church council, with the quilters and the adult forum. She helped create the NOW (National Organization of Women) Chapter at Michigan Tech in the 1970s. Leona enjoyed woodworking, antique restoration, quilting, keeping a journal, crocheting and spoiling her children and grandchildren.Leona was preceded in death by her parents, infant brother Martin, infant sister Anna, two brothers; John and Paul, a sister; Gertrude, and her loving husband Gordon. She is survived by her sister, Anita Henderson, Downey, California, her daughters Katherine (James Scherer) Baillargeon, Milwaukee, WI, Mary (Robert) Carlson, Green Bay, WI, Christine (Paul) Bissett, Hartford, WI, her five grandchildren, Ryan, Kate and Anna Carlson and Benjamin and Elizabeth Bissett and numerous relatives and friends.The family would like to extend their thanks to both Brookview Meadows Assisted Living and Unity Hospice of Green Bay for the professional and gracious care provided.Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church with visitation at the church beginning at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be made to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.To view Leona's obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.The Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Hancock has been assisting the family with the arrangements.Service Information To send flowers to the family of Leona Gustafson, please visit Tribute Store