ISHPEMING, MI – Mary Gail Honkala, age 85, of Ishpeming, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at UP Health System – Marquette.

Mary was born on May 9, 1940, in Ishpeming, to George and Teckla (Johnson) Holmgren. She grew up in a small family and developed an early love for the outdoors, spending as much time as she could in nature with her friends and siblings. Dancing was one of her lifelong passions, bringing her joy from her younger years and continuing throughout her life.

Following her graduation from Ishpeming High School, Mary worked a variety of jobs in the area, primarily as a bookkeeper and secretary. She eventually found her niche at Fisher’s Chevrolet, where she worked as a bookkeeper until her retirement. Her strong work ethic and attention to detail stayed with her throughout her life.

Mary met her future husband, Ronald Honkala, while fishing at Silver Lake in the 1990s. Their connection was immediate, and they quickly became inseparable. They were later married and shared 25 wonderful years together before Ron’s passing.

Mary cherished their time together at their camp north of Ishpeming, where she enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, and the simple pleasures of the outdoors. Evenings were often reserved for card games, an activity she insisted everyone join.

Mary also had a playful side. She loved visiting the casino and sharing stories of her wins, always with a bit of humor leaving out what it might have taken to get there. Ron was her faithful companion on these outings, often waiting patiently in the truck with Mary’s beloved dog, Patches, while Mary tried her luck inside. In recent years, she found similar enjoyment in playing the lottery and doing scratch offs.

At home, Mary had a special bond with Patches, whom she spoiled dearly and prepared chicken dinners for multiple times per week. Though she became more private later in life, her caring nature never faded.

A lifelong saver and meticulous bookkeeper, Mary remained true to herself even in her final weeks, carefully reviewing her accounts and records—a reflection of the dedication she carried throughout her life.

Above all, Mary will be remembered as a generous and giving person. She always made sure those around her were cared for and had what they needed. Her quiet kindness and steady presence will be dearly missed.

Mary is survived by her son, James (Carolyn) Trewnick; grandchildren, Eric (Rebeca) Trewnick and Corey Trewnick; and a great-granddaughter, Faith.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 25 years, Ronald Honkala; her parents, George and Teckla Holmgren; and sister, Barbara Roubekas.

Mary’s family would like to give a special thanks to Valerie and Larry Poutanen, who helped Mary so much through the years and were the best neighbors she could have ever asked for. Her family would also like to thank her special friends and neighbors, Beverlee and the late George Goldsworthy, as well as Jeff Jette. They were so helpful and always made sure Mary had what she needed.

Honoring Mary’s wishes, no public services will be held. A private family interment will take place in the Ishpeming Cemetery at a later date.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.