Ruth Hanka

Obituary of Ruth Hanka HoughtonRuth E. Hanka, 75, a resident of the Hertiage Manor Senior Living apartments in Houghton passed away Wednesday morning December 10, 2008, at home following a courageous battle with cancer.She was born on November 1, 1933, in Tapiola, a daughter of the late Victor and Anna (Torro) Petrelius. Ruth attended the John Doelle School in Tapiola.As a young woman she moved to the Detroit area to make her life where she first worked for Michigan Bell as a telephone operator, she then worked for St. Mary's Hospital in Livonia and then retired from Southfield rehabilitation. In her retirement, Ruth worked part time at the Redford Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant.On October 8, 1955, she was united in marriage to Edsel Hanka and he preceded her in death on July 11, 2006.Mrs. Hanka was a member of the Doelle Senior Citizens of Tapiola. Preceding her in death were her husband, a daughter Karen Hanka, her parents and 2 brothers, Edsel Petrelius, Richard Petrelius.Surviving are: Her children: Kevin (Debbie) Hanka of Garden City, MI Sharon Vara of Spring, TXHer grandchildren: Kyle, Hank, Kevin, Autumn, and AshleyHer sisters and brothers: Dorothy Maki of Houghton Margaret Mattila of ToivolaHazel Tepsa of Houghton Robert (Evelyn) Petrelius of South RangeDonald (Carol) Petrelius of York, S.C.Two auntsNumerous nieces, nephews, and cousins Funeral services for Ruth will be held at 12 noon Saturday December 13, 2008, at the Memorial Chapel Funeral home of Hancock with Rev. Elmer Liimatta to officiate. Spring burial will be in the Askel Cemetery of Askel, MIFriends may call on Saturday December 13, 2008, at the Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Hancock from 11 am until time of services. To view Ruth's obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memoiralchapel.net.The Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Hancock is assisting the family with the arrangements.Service Information To send flowers to the family of Ruth Hanka, please visit Tribute Store