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As received from the O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home:
Calumet: Helen Cassandra Barclay Haapala, 72, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, November 19, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Cassandra was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee on February 28, 1950 to Haynes Eldred Barclay and Lola Marie Stone. Growing up she traveled to many cities and states including Tennessee, New York, California, and Hawaii. In 1968 Cassandra came to Calumet and became the step-daughter of Ron Bianchi who passed away in 1978. She then became the step-daughter of Paul Marjamaa who passed away in 2005. She always felt like a Yooper, the U. P. was always in her heart.
Cassandra was a fierce advocate for animals, working with several agencies over the years and taking in hundreds of neglected birds, fish, dogs and cats, giving them a safe and happy home. Cassandra had a kind heart. Her saying was “Remember you wouldn’t want to be caught dead without Jesus.” She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, and sister. She was a member of Northwoods Christian Assembly Church in Calumet for 15 years under Pastor Kenneth Toth.
Cassandra was preceded in death by her brother, Jerry Stone. She is survived by her mother, Lola Marie Marjamaa; husband Wayne Haapala, Sr.; aunt Judy Wirtz; her sons: Wayne Haapala, Jr., Troy (Wendy) Haapala, and Eugene (Jody) Haapala; her sister, Sherry (Stanley) Whitfield; brothers Paul Stone and Ron (Mary) Bianchi; grandchildren Mason, Sydney, Houston, Faith, Mercie, Joseph and Judah; great-granddaughter Kinsley Korako; her devoted dog, Ginger; and her best friend, Joann Peterson.
At the request of Cassandra, there will be no funeral services or visitation at this time.
The O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements. To leave online condolences for her family, please go to www.oneilldennisfh.com.
