Houghton – Joan G. (Brassard) Keranen passed away on Saturday October 24, 2009 at Marquette General Hospital following a lengthy illness with her family by her side. Joan was born on June 17, 1939, the daughter of the late William Brassard and May Rule.


Surviving are her husband and best friend of 50 years, John Keranen, five children – Barbara (Robert) Kukkonen, Steve (Joan Crays), Kirk (Pam), Kevin (Suzanne) and Diane (Lee DeForge) Keranen, three sisters – Bonnie Datto, Peggy Brassard and Tammy Copeman, two brothers – William "Billy" Brassard and Pat Brassard, twelve grandchildren – Alan, Stephanie, Nicholas, Mark, Amber, Jeremy, Hunter, Tanner, Shawna, Venn, Zane and Harley, and one great grandchild Solomon Keranen. Also, two very special friends Heather Platzke and Cinda Dennis, her boloved dog Ginger, and several nieces and nephews. Joan was preceded in death by a brother William "Sonny" Tarbox.


A private memorial service will take place in the spring.