Keweenaw Report Your Source for Local News and Sports
She will be remembered for making Hancock a better place. Those were the words of outgoing Hancock Mayor Lisa McKenzie, speaking of longtime public servant and beloved Hancock resident Mary Tuisku.
Tuisku passed away suddenly in May of 2017 at the age of 70 while as a member of the Hancock City Council.
At an emotional ceremony at their regular meeting Wednesday, the council retired her nameplate which had remained at her seat throughout her term. In attendance were Tuisku’s two daughters, granddaughter, sister and husband of nearly 50 years Richard Tuisku–known to thousands as Dick Storm.
“She gave her all to the community. She totally believed in what she was doing. She was not a politician, she was a public servant and I’m glad that they’re honoring her,” Storm said.
Mayor McKenzie read a proclamation on behalf of the city honoring Tuisku’s service, totaling more than 20 years, including serving as Hancock’s first female mayor. McKenzie then presented Tuisku’s nameplate to her family.
Storm said, “I have covered Hancock city council meetings for 40 years and that’s no exaggeration. I don’t remember them ever a council plaque. I think it’s wonderful.”
The proclamation recognized Tuisku for the significant contributions she made and acknowledged the faithful commitment she made to the city of Hancock during her lifetime.
