Michael Wiljanen

Obituary of Michael Wiljanen Hancock Canal District Michael W. "Mickey" Wiljanen, 88, a resident of the Hancock Canal District, passed away Thursday, December 4, 2003, at this home following complications from a stroke. He was born on December 11, 1914, in Mohawk, a son of the late Matthew & Margaret (Simila) Wiljanen, and graduated from the Calumet High School with the Class of 1934. Following graduation he went to Detroit to look for work. He was employed at the Ford Motor Co. first, before enlisting in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Mickey then worked at Crown Welding, where he was self employed with a partner, Bart Autio. He then was employed as a pipefitter at General Motors Corporation for 20 years, retiring in January of 1976. Since 1977, he made his home in the Hancock area. On September 19, 1939, he was united in marriage to the former Aili Elsila, and she preceded him in death in January of 1976. He then was married to the former Hildegard (Goebel) Oikarinen on April 23, 1977. Mickey enjoyed bowling, deep sea fishing, deer hunting, but most of all he loved working in his woodshop. He made furniture for his home, wedding gifts consisting of; candlesticks, Lazy Susans,etc. He was very active in his church, both in Detroit and at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Hancock. While a member of the Keweenaw Kiwanis he helped build many ramps for the handicapped and spent much time visiting the elderly in the area nursing homes. He made many items of wood in his workshop for the church to help the congregation in its weekly worship, hospitality, and their business. He was a member of the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church of Hancock, a member of the former Keweenaw Kiwanis Club, and was instrumental in helping Big Brothers, Big Sisters getting started. Also preceding him in death were his parents, and 8 brothers & sisters. Surviving are: his wife, Hildegard 1 Daughter: Margaret Ann (Dennis) Rautio of Chassell 1 Son: Michael (Susan) Wiljanen of Negaunee 5 Grandchildren 6 Great Grandchildren 1 Step Daughter: Carole Ann (John) Goebel of Novi 1 Step Son: Kenneth (Pamela) Oikarinen of Novi 5 Step Grandchildren 2 Sisters: Martha Kristo of Mohawk Marie (William) Kivila of Midland numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins Funeral services will be held Monday December 8, 2003, at 11 A.M. in the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church of Hancock, with Rev. Jimalee Jones to officiate. Spring burial to be in the Lake View Cemetery in Calumet. Friends may call at the Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Hancock, from 4 to 8 P.M. on Sunday and for 1 hour prior to services at the church on Monday. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy the family suggests memorials be given to the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church Endowment Fund or the charity of one's choice. To send flowers to the family of Michael Wiljanen, please visit Tribute Store