Humboldt Twp, MI- Judith Elizabeth "Judy" Lahtela, age 82, Humboldt Township resident, passed away on Friday, September 17, 2021, at UP Health System Marquette.

Judy was born in Ishpeming, MI, on March 31, 1939, a daughter of the late Inga Elizabeth (Pesola) and William Edward Oja. She graduated from Champion High School, class of 1956.

She worked as a medical office assistant for Dr. Narotzky and Dr. Tobin for many years. She was a member of Hope Free Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Judy enjoyed talking with people, getting together for coffee visits with family and friends, and making ordinary events a little more special. She encouraged others, welcomed kids to Sunday School, volunteered at elementary schools, and tutored adults in reading. She enjoyed the outdoors and camping, liked reading and music, and had fun traveling and wintering in Texas for many years.

Judy is survived by her husband, William Ardean Lahtela, who she married on October 9, 1959, 2 daughters: Sara (Edward) Lakanen, of Ishpeming, and Susan (Kurt) Beyer, of Lena, WI, 6 Grandchildren: Jared (Adrianna) Lakanen, Dan (Vanessa) Lakanen, Josie, Jenna, Lydia, and Max Beyer,  2 sisters: Sarah Williams, of The Woodlands, TX, and Virginia (Chas) Prusi, of Black River, a brother Ken (Theresa) Oja, of Marquette, sister-in-law Margaret Oja, of Ishpeming, and brother-in-law, Albert Lahtela, of Winston Salem, NC, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents William and Inga Oja, brothers Jerry and Richard Oja, brothers-in-law: Harry Williams, Gordon Halonen, and Wally Monett, sisters-in-law: Charlotte Oja, Dorothy Halonen Cox, Della Monett, Helen Lahtela, and Shirley Monett.

Judy's family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00 am – 11:00 am on Thursday, September 23, 2021, at the Hope Free Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ishpeming Twp, where her funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, with Pastor Dave Ryerson officiating.  Judy's service will be live streamed on Hope Free Lutheran Church's Facebook page.

A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Interment will take place at the Humboldt Twp Cemetery.

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

"The grass withereth, the flower fadeth; but the word of our God shall stand forever."   Isaiah 40:8