Ishpeming, MI - Merry Carol (Wiig) Bartanen, 76, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2021, with her loving family by her side.

Merry was born in Negaunee, Michigan, on December 25, 1944, to the late Marion (Datson) and Emil Wiig. She was the oldest of five children. Merry graduated in 1963 from Negaunee High School and was a graduate of Northern Michigan University, receiving her degree in Special Education. Merry worked at Bay Cliff Health Camp for many summers and taught students with intellectual disabilities at Birchview Elementary School. She left teaching in 1970 to be a homemaker and raise her family. When her children were older, she became a substitute teacher for the NICE Community School District.

On August 6, 1966, Merry was united in marriage to W. Douglas Bjorne. Together they had two children, Heather and Wayne. They were married for 22 years until his death on October 1, 1988.

Merry married Charlie Bartanen on August 10, 2002. They enjoyed 31 happy years together, wintering in Florida and traveling to see their grandchildren in California, North Dakota, Connecticut and Wisconsin. Merry and Charlie finally retired at the "Blueberry Ranch," their home south of Ishpeming. Merry enjoyed many years of gardening, watching and feeding the animals. She enjoyed quilting, knitting, and sewing, making beautiful quilts and doll clothes. She was known for making potato sausage for family holiday get-togethers.

Merry is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Charlie, of Ishpeming, Michigan. Her two children, Heather Bjorne of New Richmond, Wisconsin, and Wayne (Stefanie) Bjorne of Burlington, Connecticut. Her cherished grandchildren, Christian Martin, Rachel (Matthew) Chaplin, Zachary Martin, and Kira Martin all of New Richmond, and Brennan and Isabella Bjorne of Burlington. She is also survived by four siblings, including Robert Wiig and Gloria Alexander of Marquette, a special aunt Carol (Tom) LaPenna, of Marquette and in-laws Richard (Robin) Bartanen and Stephen (Lynn) Bartanen of Ishpeming, Bruce (Carole) Bartanen of Oconto, Wisconsin, Sally Healey of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and Linda (Michael) Bonetti of Boynton Beach, Florida; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Per Merry's wishes, cremation will take place with a memorial service being planned for next summer.

Thank you to the staff at UP Health Systems and Mission Point for their compassionate care during Merry's time there.

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