FRANK M. "MIKE" SAARINEN

March 24, 1918 - January 18, 2008

F.M.”CAPTAIN MIKE” SAARINEN, 89, of L’Anse passed away suddenly on Monday, January 14, 2008 at his residence. He was born in Conneaut, Ohio on March 24, 1918 the son of the late Frank and Milja (Haapala) Saarinen. Mike attended school in Ashtabula, Ohio and graduated in 1936. He married the former Charlotte Auger in L’Anse on December 28, 1946. She preceded him in death in 1998. Mike served in the US Coast Guard. He sailed the Great Lakes for 46 years, working his way up to boat captain, retiring in 1982. Mike was a member of the L’Anse United Methodist Church, and a life member of the L’Anse Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed reading, carpentry, watching basketball, was an avid boat memorabilia collector, and a fan of the Cleveland Browns and Indians. Because of his boating experiences he kept up to date on the weather forecasts. He will be fondly remembered as a quiet and peaceful man. Mr. Saarinen is survived by his loving sons, David (Karen) Saarinen of Ashland, WI., Bill (Corie) Saarinen of L’Anse, and John Saarinen of L’Anse, and grandchildren, Michael, and Katie. A memorial service for Mr. Saarinen was held at 3 p.m. Friday, January 18, 2008 from the L’Anse United Methodist Church with Pastor John Henry officiating. Interment will take place in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery. A Masonic Service, conducted by the L’Anse Masonic Lodge was held at 2:30 p.m. The family greeted friends at the church on Friday from 2 p.m. until time of the services. Memorials in Mr. Saarinen’s honor may be directed to the L’Anse United Methodist Church Fund.