Edwin Oja, 92, passed away Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility, where he had been a resident for the past 3 years.
Edwin was born on November 12, 1924 in Fulton, Michigan, a son of Andrew & Anna (Bensala) Oja. He attended Calumet High School and then entered the Navy, serving in World War II aboard the USS Lexington.
On March 5, 1949, he married Bette Kytta. After a brief time in Copper City, they made their family home in Ahmeek and raised three children. Edwin worked numerous jobs, including logging and mining, before beginning a 20 year career at the Michigan Tech University Research Center as a heavy equipment operator. He was an avid horseshoe player and also enjoyed bowling. Upon retirement, he became a golfer and enjoyed many rounds with his wife, family, and friends. Edwin was also a member of the Mohawk American Legion Post 230.
Edwin is preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, Wesley; and sisters, Laila, Elvie, and Mildred.
Surviving are: Sons, Dan (Nancy) Oja of Mohawk; Ron (Mary) Oja of Copper City;
Daughter, Sue (Mike) Marcinek of California;
3 Grandchildren, Julianne (Joel) Tuoriniemi of Fulton; Michael (Sharon Harju) Oja of Mohawk; Mark (Sarah) Oja of North Carolina;
4 Great grandchildren, Wyatt, Hanna, Hunter, and Josie;
and Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A private burial will take place this spring at the Calvary Cemetery in Ahmeek.
Edwin's family wishes to express their thanks to the care providers at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, donations may be given to the Kermits Keweenaw Kids 5095 Fourth Street, Eagle River, MI 49950.
Online condolences for the family may be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com
The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home in Calumet is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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