As received from the Jacobson Funeral Home. If you have questions about, or potential corrections to the content, please contact the funeral home directly.
Shirley Anne Wanhaaho, age 79, of Elo, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
Shirley was born on February 14, 1946, in L’Anse, Michigan, to Donald and Milga (Maki) Parkila. She graduated from Baraga High School in 1964 and later earned a certificate in Dietary Nutrition from Auburn University. On November 1, 1993, she married Keith Wanhaaho in L’Anse.
Shirley dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant, providing home care in Houghton County and later at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, where she served for nine years before retiring in 1999.
A woman of many talents and deep love for her family, Shirley found joy in gardening, quilting, and canning. She especially cherished time spent with her grandchildren, who brought her immense happiness.
She is survived by her loving husband, Keith Wanhaaho of Elo; her children, Lori (Phil) Crary of Meredosia, IL; and Michael Pyykkonen of Kalamazoo, MI, her brothers, Ron (June) Parkila of Chassell, Arvo (Sharon) Parkila of Garden City, and Jim (Tina) Parkila of Pelkie; her grandchildren, Joel Crary and Shelley (Michael) Smith; and great-grandson Mason Irwin.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Milga Parkila; her son, Gregory Pyykkonen; and her brother, John Parkila.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 21st from 1-4:00 p.m. at the Laird Township Hall in Alston. Burial will take place at Pelkie Cemetery. Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Friends may sign Shirley’s guest book or share condolences online at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com
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