Ishpeming - Joan M. Kulju, age 88, lifelong area resident, passed away on Tuesday June 27, 2023 at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility while in the loving care of her family, Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice, and Nursing Home staff.

Joan was born on December 14, 1934 in her family house in Republic, daughter of the late Waino and Hilma (Maki) Kerkela. She grew up in Republic, moving to Humboldt when she and her husband Robert were married. Joan worked for the HW Gossard Company prior to raising her family.

Joan loved to play cards with her family and friends. She enjoyed babysitting her grandkids and was a Game Show Network enthusiast. Her favorite pastime was to go "bumming" with her girlfriends. She made the best pasties every year for deer camp and her homemade pizzas were mouthwatering.

She was especially proud of her grandchildren for their talents, intelligence, fearlessness and height. Every time she saw one of them, her first words were, "You're so tall!"

Joan Is survived by 4 children - David Kulju, Diana (Pat) Abbott, Dean (Lori) Kulju, Don (Vikki) Kulju; two brothers - William and Wayne Kerkela; several grandchildren - Stephanie, Justin, Kory, Toni, Taylor (Ethan) and Ty; sister-in-laws – Mary, Rita, Judy, Mina and Marilyn; and numerous nieces and nephews whose names she could never remember.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband - Robert Kulju; infant son – Dennis; and seven siblings - June, Joyce, Janet, Barbara, Myrna, Richard, and Jack.

Joan will be missed immeasurably by her family and friends.

Following Joan's wishes, cremation will take place with no public services.

Joan's family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility and Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice for the wonderful care they gave to Joan.

Joan's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.