Ishpeming – Helen M. Lahnanen, age 77, of 1912 Deer Lake Ave., Ishpeming, passed away on Thursday January 29, 2015 at the Marquette Co. Medical Care Facility in Ishpeming where she had resided for the past year. Helen was in the loving care of her family, the staff at the Marquette Co. Medical Care Facility and the Upper Peninsula Home Health and Hospice at the time of her death.

Helen was born December 4, 1937 in North Greenwood Location the daughter of the late Roy and Evelyn (Kobie) Cardew. Helen had worked as a waitress for several years at the American Cafe in Ishpeming and then for American in Marquette. She retired in order to take care of her grandchildren whom she saw daily and enjoyed attending all of their sporting activities.

Helen enjoyed playing BINGO and cribbage, playing in several area leagues, along with trips to the casino. Helen loved singing and listening to music, especially country music. She also took time out daily for coffee and socializing with the girls.

Survivors include her husband John "Jack" Lahnanen of Ishpeming, 5 children – David (Valerie) Kipling of Ishpeming, Lois (David) Champion of Appleton, WI, Dean Kipling of Ishpeming, Kevin (fiancee Daniele) Kipling of Negaunee, and Rosemarie (Steve) Larson of Ishpeming; step-children Rick Lahnanen of Helen Lake, Donald Lahnanen of Ishpeming and Robert (Andrea) Lahnanen of Millington, MI; sister Edith Maki of Ishpeming, 2 brothers Lowell (Roberta) Cardew of Ishpeming and James (Sandy) Cardew of SC, 9 grandchildren – Brenda Steve, Jacob and Caleb Larson, Cora Bleau, Toni Marie (fiance Luke) Enrietti, Katie, Jackie, Amber & Dylan Lahnanen 2 great grandchildren – Megan (Jeff) Steve & Ryan Oslund, a great grandson Mason, a special niece Betty Ann, along with many other nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by 4 brothers – Roy, Ed, Norman and Russell Cardew and a infant granddaughter Sherrie.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 4 until 6pm Monday, February 2, 2015 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 6:00pm Monday in the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home with the Rev. Lauri O. Maki to officiate. Interment will take place at Northland Chapel Gardens.

The funeral service recording, when it becomes available, can be found here .