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Theresa Ann Syrjala

CLARKSBURG, MI – Theresa Ann Syrjala, age 71 of Clarksburg went to be with her Lord on Thursday April 4, 2019 at her home while in the loving care of her family and UP Home Health & Hospice. Theresa battled brain cancer for almost 2 1/2 years.

Theresa was born in Ishpeming, MI on April 2, 1948 to Raymond J. and Lucille D. (Brukner) LaCosse. She was a 1966 graduate of Champion High School and was salutatorian of her class.

Theresa worked for Equitable Life Insurance for a couple years. She married Edsel C. Syrjala on October 5, 1968, they had 2 children: Jerry and Kristi. She then worked for Pepin-Ireco Inc for 14 years and then a couple years at Marquette County Medical Care Facility where she ministered to a multitude of people. She surely loved the Lord and ministered to almost everyone she met. Her favorite book was the Bible, which she read every day.

In her leisure time she enjoyed her flower garden, walking, bike rides and watching Christian shows on television. She and her husband attended Crossbridge Church in Ishpeming which they loved very much. She also enjoyed going to the nursing home to help with BINGO on Wednesday nights. Once again, she would minister to those she helped and told them about God’s love for them. She was also a gracious giver.

Theresa is survived by Edsel, her loving husband of 50 years, their 2 children: Jerry Syrjala of Belle Plaine, MN and Kristi (Dwight) Barry of Clarksburg, a sister Barbara (Paul) Kemp of Grand Marsh, WI grandchildren: Alyssa Syrjala and Whitney Barry, step grandchildren: Kyle Barry, Spencer Barry and Tia Couveau, 5 step great grandchildren, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, sisters in law and brothers in law.

Theresa was preceded in death by her parents: Raymond and Lucille LaCosse, her mother and father in law Paula and George Syrjala, and a stillborn brother.

A special mention of Pastor Michael Carriere for being a lifelong friend and part of her life. Also, Pastor Kevin McIlhany for being a friend and her Pastor at Crossbridge Church. Both Pastors prayed for her and gave her great encouragement and inspiration.

Theresa’s family will greet relatives and friends from 10 a.m. until noon on Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming where a memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon with Pastors Kevin McIlhany and Michael Carriere officiating.

A luncheon will follow at the River Rock Lanes and Banquet Center in Ishpeming.

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