Trout Creek, MI- Billie Jo (Steve) Walsh, age 41 former Ishpeming resident, passed away Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at her home following a lengthy illness.

Billie Jo was born February 14, 1971 in Ishpeming to Donna (Pohlman) & William Steve. She graduated from Ishpeming High School, class of 1989 and attended Northern Michigan University.

Billie Jo lived in Florida for 8years working as a property manager. She enjoyed jet skiing, rollerblading, reading, crocheting, & playing softball. She was an avid Detroit Red Wing and Pittsburg Steelers Fan. Billie Jo had a wonderful sense of humor.

Billie Jo is survived by her fiancé Ernie Hiitala of Trout Creek, her mother Donna Steve of Ishpeming, her father Bill Steve of Ontonagon, grandfather Carl Hytinen, step mother Mary Steve of Crivitz, WI, 2 sisters: Kimberly (Frederick) Koski of Ishpeming and Elizabeth Steve of Ishpeming, a brother Mike (Jen) Steve of White Pine, nieces & nephews: Brad & Tyler Koski, Nathan & Samantha Croschere, Bailey & Cody Cadeau, Austin, Alicia and Avery Steve and Danielle Nelson, a great nephew Hunter Croschere, special uncle Michael (Lark) Hytinen, aunts & uncles Ed Steve, Ray & Jodi Kantola, Lois (Dave) Champion, cousin Cara Hytinen along with many other cousins. Billie Jo was preceded in death by her grandparents Jack & Marge Steve, grandmother Evelyn Hytinen and an aunt Connie Lompre.

A memorial service will be held 3:00PM Sunday, February 26, 2012 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home with Rev. John Roy officiating. The family will receive relatives and friends at Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home on Sunday from 1:00-3:00PM.

A luncheon will be held at the Tilden Twp Hall following the memorial service.

Billie Jo's obituary may be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com where her guest book may be signed.