Ishpeming, MI - Linda Sofia Peterson, age 80, of 314 W. Barnum St., Ishpeming, passed away on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at UP Health System Marquette.

Linda was born in Hancock, MI on December 30, 1940, the daughter of the late Ellen Ida (Junttila) and Carl K. Nikula. Linda's maternal grandfather, Matti Junttila, immigrated to the United States from Finland and settled in the Copper Country. Her paternal grandfather, Charles Nikula, was the proprietor of the Houghton Bottling Works in the 1930s. Linda grew up in the Copper Country and graduated from Hancock High School, Class of 1959. She attended Ferris State University and Western Michigan University in the 1970s, earning a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in Library Science.

Linda was the Head Librarian at the Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library from March of 1976 until her retirement in April of 2002. During her 26 years there, she helped Ishpeming residents find the books and information they needed with her deep knowledge of the world and keen awareness of the library's holdings. Linda guided the library into the computer and internet age during the 1980s and 1990s, digitizing the paper card catalog and installing computers with internet access. She took great pride in keeping the library's book collection in good condition and in updating it with high quality CDs, DVDs, magazines, and of course, amazing books.

Although reading was certainly her favorite pastime, there is no denying that spending time with her family was what she loved best. Her two sons lived nearby or returned home for holidays, and her grandchildren attended NMU and visited her often. Linda also enjoyed the camaraderie of her weekly card club, even though she didn't win all that often. Linda felt that free and easy access to books and information was of the utmost importance, and she supported the Ishpeming Library through her longtime membership in the Friends of the Library.

Linda belonged to the United Presbyterian Church in Ishpeming. She loved Sunday services and made dear friends among the congregation. Her faith grew stronger and deeper over years of fellowship with her beloved church family. They helped her live a rich and beautiful life.

Linda is survived by a son, Matthew C. (Jody) Peterson of Long Beach, MS; three grandchildren - Max (Bird) Peterson of Traverse City, Sam Peterson of Marquette, and Rachel (Jake) Kuliu of Munising; and a sister, Martha (Bill) Rooney of AZ. She was preceded in death by a son, Walter Peterson; and two sisters - Carol Thorstenson and Janet Chynoweth. She will be dearly missed by her friend of 51 years, Sandy Laforest.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, December 11, 2021, at the United Presbyterian Church, 112 E. Euclid St., Ishpeming, where a Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 PM. Coffee and refreshments to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks you consider memorial donations to either the Friends of the Library, 317 N. Main St., Ishpeming, MI 49849, or the United Presbyterian Church, 112 E. Euclid St., Ishpeming, MI 49849.

Due to the increasing current COVID cases, and in consideration for others in attendance, the family asks you to kindly wear a mask while attending the services.

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