Michigamme- Rosemarie M. Bentti., age 72, of 113 N. Brook St. (P.O. Box 66), Michigamme, passed away at 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 23, at her home surrounded by her loving family and friends and under the support of Lake Superior Hospice.

Rosemarie was born December 28, 1935, in Michigamme to Clifford and Louise (LaCosse) Mercier. Rosemarie was married to Edwin Bentti of Michigamme for 55 years. She lived in Michigamme all of her life except for the time when her husband was stationed in Georgia and Kansas with the armed forces.

Rosemarie graduated from Michigamme High School in 1953 and Northern Michigan University with a degree in elementary education in 1972. She also earned a master's degree and an educational specialist degree from Northern Michigan University. She was employed by the L'Anse School District at the C.J. Sullivan School for 23 years as teacher and then principal. After her public school retirement she served as principal of Sacred Heart School in L'Anse for three years.

She was an accomplished cook and baker. She loved to knit and was known among her many quilting friends for her quilting skill. She spent her life caring for animals, especially dogs and wild birds, and nurturing children.

Rosemarie was a member of the former St. Agnes Catholic Church in Michigamme and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Champion. She was an active member of the Marquette County Quilters Association.

Rosemarie is survived by her husband, Edwin; a daughter, Catherine (Tim) Bulera of Onalaska, WI; a son, Christopher (Michele) Bentti of Hastings, MI; a brother, Robert (Mary) Mercier of Michigamme and Chicago, and five grandchildren, Ann (Tom) Christian, Jennifer Luke, Mark Luke, Ben T. Bulera and Sierra Michele Bentti. She is also survived by Lorraine Tapio Mercier; an aunt, Catherine Joan Boudreau of Escanaba; many cousins, including Jim Carter and many nieces and nephews, including Jean Louise (Mercier) Smith. A daughter, Mary Ann Luke, and her parents preceded her in death.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 7:00 p.m. Sunday, September 28, 2008, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Champion with Fr. Greg Heikkala officiating.

Family and friends may call Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Sunday from 6:00 p.m. until the time of service at 7:00 p.m.

Memorial considerations may be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Lake Superior Hospice in memory of Rosemarie Bentti.

Following the funeral service desserts and refreshments will be served in the church fellowship hall.

Rosemarie's obituary may also be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com where her guest book may be signed.