Obituary: Nancy M. (Cherne) Hiltunen

As received from the Ryan Funeral Home:

Calumet – Nancy M. (Cherne) Hiltunen 74, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Dec. 15th 2018 at The Omega House of Houghton, where she resided for the last 2 months of her life. Nancy was born on Feb. 24th 1944 to her mother and father; Willard Cherne and Josephine Cor in Adams Township of Houghton County, Mi. Nancy was born in Trimountain/Painesdale area and then her family moved to Butte, Mt. in 1945. Much of her family has now passed on and are buried at the Mountain View Cemetery of South Range, MI.

Nancy is survived by her Ex Husband James J. Hiltunen of Laurium, Mi; sons, Kyle J. Hiltunen of Calumet, Mi; Glenn D. Cortez of Dallas, Tx; and daughter, Tamara Deal of Yuma, Ar. Also, Mark A. Cortez (deceased) of Milwaukee, Wi.

Nancy also has siblings: Nancy’s sister, Judith H. Liddy of Helena, Mt as well as her 6 children; Nancy has many nieces and nephews too. The whole “Hiltunen” Family from her Ex. Husband’s side. She remained close friends to James Hiltunen and his family even after their divorce. Nancy loved his family like her own. She spend much time with the Hiltunen Family when she was healthier…all branches!!!

Nancy loved to drink coffee, and visit family when she could. She also loved to play Scrabble and a card game called “Squeege”. Nancy absolutely loved animals of all kinds, having dogs and cats throughout her lifetime. she also loved birds which she owned multiple times, she loved owls, as well as nature. She loved Montana to her core. From it’s Bitterroot Mountains, to the green grassy valleys below. Nancy also loved going for a drive…ANYWHERE… Nancy also loved watching tv, any cute critters outdoors, and even owned a pair of chipmunks named “Chip and Dale” at one point.

Nancy was a devoted Christian, Baptized Catholic and later on followed the Apostolic Lutheran Religion from the Apostolic Lutheran Church of Laurium, Mi; now known as the ( Laurium Shining Light Church). She also had a deep respect for now retired Rev. Rod Johnson from her church. Religion was something Nancy took very serious, Jesus Christ our Lord was always in her heart. She spoke of him often, Nancy had many troubles of her own but always wanted others to trust in Jesus and let him guide them through lifes many obstacles.

Nancy worked at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility for 10 yrs as a Kitchen aid, as well as Housekeeping and laundry too. Nancy will be missed by all her family members, friends, ex-co-workers, as she was one to strike up a conversation with anyone. At Nancy’s request, she did not want a funeral or service. Please remember her in your thoughts and prayers. Jesus leads us the way, It’s up to you and I to walk the path he shines for us to follow. I love you mom. Ryan Funeral Home is assisting the family.