Ishpeming- Theodore P. Heilala, age 57 of 672 Poplar Street, Ishpeming passed away at his home on Sunday March 31, 2019.

Theodore was born April 4, 1961 in Ishpeming to D. Paul and the late Suzanne E. (Argall) Heilala.

Ted was a graduate of Ishpeming High School class of 1979 and received an Associate Degree from N.M.U. Ted was an avid sports fan. He played four years of Hematite high school football. He followed his sons with pride in their sports being a member of the chain gang for nine years, was a supporter of the Hematite Booster Club, and Class Representative of the Ishpeming Alumni Association.

Teddy had many interests besides sports. Ted was so proud to be a part of the Ishpeming Blue Notes, driving the follow up vehicle for many years. He enjoyed bowling, playing cribbage and playing board games with his family.

Ted was a longtime member of Grace Episcopal Church, serving in many capacities and a member of the Ishpeming ELKS Lodge. He loved fishing and hunting. He spent many years hunting with his uncle, Joe Argall and enjoyed his time spent out at "Perry's 80 Acres" camp.

According to Ted's wife and sons, he may have worn #64 in football and #22 in basketball, but he will always and forever be #1.

Ted fell in love with his high school sweetheart (in 1976) Susan C. (Perry) Heilala, whom he married on August 23, 1980. He is survived by his wife, along with his "pride and joy" three sons: Chris (Angela) Heilala of Marshfield, WI, Joe (Jeni) Heilala of Marshfield, WI and Ryan (fiancé Natalie Still) Heilala of Ishpeming, four beautiful grandchildren: Griffin, Allison, Lincoln and Maddie, his father D. Paul Heilala, mother-in-law, Joanne Perry, brothers and sisters-in-laws: Scott (Denise) Perry, David (Lori) Perry, and Debbie (Gerald) Romero, along with several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews who all adored him. Ted is also leaving his friend and dog "Oreo".

Ted was preceded in death by his mother, Suzanne E. (Argall) Heilala, his father-in-law, Glenn "Spike" Perry, his grandparents, Russell and Lottie Argall and Matthew and Ida Heilala.

Ted's family will greet relatives and friends from 3:00-4:00 pm on Thursday, April 4, 2019 what would have been Ted's 58 ^th birthday, at the Grace Episcopal Church in Ishpeming where funeral services will be held at 4:00 pm with Ginny Graybill and Hank Steede to officiate.

A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Pallbearers will be Scott, David, Mark, Dan and Brad Perry, Gerald Romero, Jeff Kinnunen, and Dan Waterman.

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

Ted's funeral recording can be listened to here.