Negaunee – Laura Marie Jarvela, age 94, passed away at 9:10AM on Sunday, January 11, 2009 at the Eastwood Nursing Center of Negaunee surrounded by her loving family.

Laura was born in Copper City, MI on December 24, 1914, the daughter of the late Lauris and Petra (Karlsen) Strand. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Ishpeming. Laura enjoyed her time with her family, crocheting and music and was involved in many church activities. She was one of the oldest members of Trinity Lutheran Church. She also enjoyed her friends at Eastwood Nursing Home and playing Bingo.

She is survived by seven daughters: Judith (Jerry) Nease of Marquette, Audrey (Phil) Nardi of Ishpeming, Donna (Fran) Lundin of Santa Maria, CA, Betty (Paul) Carilli of Negaunee, Paulette (Colin) Jacobetti of Iron Mountain, Sandra (Bruce) Lindberg of Marquette, and Janice (Tom) LaFreniere of Petaluma, CA, 23 Grandchildren, 35 Great Grandchildren, 4 step Great Grandchildren, and Numerous Great-Great Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews and her sister, Della St.John of Livonia, MI, sisters-in-law Melba Bolley of Mesa, AZ and LaVerne Strand of Port Sanilac, MI. Laura is preceded in death by her husband Paul W. Jarvela, 3 brothers and a sister.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 11:00AM at the Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Kenneth Lahners officiating. The family will greet friends and relatives from 10:00AM until the time of services. Interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery.

The family would like to especially thank the staff at Eastwood Nursing Center for their love and support.