Obituary: Rachelle R. Ketola

As received from the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel:

Rachelle R. Ketola, “Shelly,” “Shell Shell,” age 58 of L’Anse, MI gained her wings Sunday, May 8th, 2022. In her home, surrounded by her loving family, Rachelle received the gift of eternal peace after a long battle with COPD. Born in Norway, MI on September 15, 1963 as the daughter of the late William and Bonnie (Maynard) Hagberg, Shelly was loved from the start. She attended school and lived in Kingsford, MI where she was raised by her mother and later relocated to L’Anse, MI where she married Peter Ketola on November 27, 1999. Rachelle loved spending time with her family, being outdoors, taking rides and walks with her husband, playing cribbage, watching Lifetime movies, cracking jokes and visiting with friends. She enjoyed relaxing with a bit of rolled grass and cooking home cooked meals for her family, always making sure there was enough to go around, even if the budget was tight. A wonderful Mother, Grandmother, Wife, Sister, Aunt and Friend (most thoughtful Santa and Easter Bunny, too) – Rachelle was a very giving woman, always putting her loved ones first (and she loved everyone). The door to her home was always left open, welcoming anyone for anything at any time. Mom to her own children and Ma to many others. In her younger years she had proudly worked 2 jobs and long hours to sustain her family. Rachelle overcame many trying times in her life, and she did it all with the utmost faith in God. Instilling this faith in her children and those who knew her best, Rachelle leaves behind her strength in each of her loved ones. “When you can’t change it, give it to God and let him handle it.” – Rachelle would often say. Her bright eyes, beautiful smile, warm hugs and ever-loving personality will not be easily forgotten, may she live on in each of those who loved her so.

Rachelle is survived by her loving husband Peter Ketola of L’Anse, MI; Children Ryan Grismer of Iron Mountain, MI, Robert (Sierra) Frank of Port Washington, WI, Sondra Chapman of Baraga, MI, and Shanice Latvis of Amasa, MI.; Many other self-proclaimed children, including Andrea, Roseanne, Johnny, Diane, and Camiel; Grandchildren Riley, Evan, Annalyse, Leonna, Natalie, Ellie, Emylee, Zachary, Lilley, Malakai, Brennan, Donavin, and Elizabeth; Brothers Billy (Diana) Hagberg, and Daniel (Mary) Smith; Sisters Dee Dee (Jerry) Miller, Bobbi (John) Martin and Annie (Paul) Ray; Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also survive—including special cousin Holly Joy Maynard and friends J’me Vadnais and Cheryl (Frank) Collins. She was preceded in death by her parents Bonnie (Rick) Surprise and William Hagberg; Brother Fredrick Albert Hagberg; Sister Bunny Joy Beyer; Daughters Shanda Renee LaFernier and Bambi Joi Grismer, and several other close family and friends.

A celebration of Rachelle’s life will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 13th, 2022 at the Silver Mountain Access Site on Prickett Dam Road, Pelkie, MI 49958

The family would like to thank all of the BCMH Hospice team members, in keeping Rachelle comfortable, at home, and at ease.

Rachelle’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.reidfuneralservicechapel.com.

The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with the arrangements.