ERNEST T. "ERNIE" SAARI's Obituary
ERNEST T. "ERNIE" SAARI, 83, of Elo, MI. passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2008 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L'Anse following a lengthy illness. He was born in Elo, MI. on September 4, 1925 the son of the late Jacob and Hilma (Syrjala) Saari. Ernie attended John A. Doelle School. He married the former Ann Jurva on March 13, 1948 in Pelkie. Ernie was a member of Mission United Lutheran Church and the Doelle Senior Citizens, and participated in other community organizations and activities. He was a man of many skills and talents. In addition to farming the land that he grew up on, he also worked at other jobs to help support his family. He worked for the Pelkie Co-op, and for Pettibone for 20 years. Ernie eventually started his own successful welding and saw shop business from which he retired. His entrepreneurial skills were always evident even from a young age he helped manage the family farm, walked many miles to deliver the "Grit", and was one of the owners of the Otter River Dance Hall in Tapiola during the 1940's. His guitar-playing skills were evident as he played for dances and was a part of many impromptu “bands” over the years. Ernie possessed a sense of humor that could only be described as "unique".
Mr. Saari is survived by his loving wife, Ann, son Jim Saari of Ironwood, MI., his pal Misty the cat, several nieces and nephews, and numerous cousins in Finland, and the best neighbors and friends anyone could ever hope for. He was preceded in death by 6 sisters, Ellen, Dagmar, Joanne, Esther, Sanelma, and Sylvia, and 2 brothers, Elmer and Eino.
Funeral services for Mr. Saari were held at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 20, 2008 from Mission United Lutheran Church, Pelkie with Pastor John Autio officiating. Spring interment will take place in the Elo Cemetery. The family greeted friends at the church on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Memorials in Mr. Saari's honor may be directed to the Mission United Lutheran Church. Envelopes will be available at the church.
What’s your fondest memory of ERNEST?
What’s a lesson you learned from ERNEST?
Share a story where ERNEST's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with ERNEST you’ll never forget.
How did ERNEST make you smile?