As received from the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel. If you have questions about, or potential corrections to the content, please contact the funeral home directly.
Shelly Jane Jestila, 65, of L’Anse, passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, at UPHS Marquette following an acute illness.
Shelly was born on September 5, 1961 in L’Anse MI to Edward and Della Jestila. She attended school in L’Anse and at Cedar Lake Academy in Cedar Lake, MI. She lived most of her life in L’Anse, with short stays in Flint MI and Minneapolis, MN.
During her school years, Shelly was an amazing athlete, excelling in basketball and gymnastics. She loved photography and was a very good mechanic. She could fix almost anything. Shelly was also a decent baker and cook. She would often make Finnish steamed jellies to distribute to family and friends. She called it “Shelly Belly Jelly”.
At the age of 24, Shelly purchased the Bella Vista Tavern in Pequaming MI, making her the youngest female bar owner in Michigan. The Bella has been around since the 1920s and is a well-known historic landmark. Shelly made it into a cozy place, often hosting bonfires, parties and fishing tournaments.
Shelly is survived by a sister Debra Mikolaizik of Washington, brother Michael Jestila of Hancock and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Gerald Jestila and Larry Jestila, and her best friend Penny Emery.
Shelly will best be remembered by her devotion to caring for her dear mother Della, her love of family, her infectious smile and her silly giggle.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Shelly’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.
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