Irma Sylvia Alanko

Irma was born in Ishpeming to John and Selma (Haavisto) Isaacson, the youngest of 13 children. After the death of both her parents in 1931, she was raised by an aunt and uncle, Lempi and Isaac Haavisto. She graduated from Ishpeming High School in 1945 and in 1978 received an Associate in Business Degree from Northern Michigan University.

She married Gustie L. Alanko in 1946 and they had two sons, Dale and Steven Alanko. Irma worked as a bookkeeper in the dental office of Dr. Stanley Holman which later became the office of Drs. Dan Collins and Terry Gould for over 55 years, finally retiring at the age of 85. She also sold real estate with Look Realty for a number of years in the 1980-90’s. In her earlier years, she was very involved in the Order of the Eastern Star.

In addition to her parents and guardians, Irma was preceded in death by her husband, Gustie in 1994, her brothers and sisters, many sisters and brothers-in-law and other extended family.

She is survived by her sons, Dale (Kim) Alanko of Marquette and Steven Alanko of Port Ludlow, WA; grandsons Erik (Anna) Alanko of Wausau, WI and Tanner (Rachel) Alanko of Kimberly, WI; a granddaughter, Emily Ann Alanko of Vail, AZ; and four great-grandchildren, Evelyn, Finley, Gustie, and Levi Alanko. Also surviving is her very special niece, Kathleen Chavez (who spent countless hours caring for her) as well as several other nieces and nephews.

Private family services will be held. Expressions of sympathy can be directed to: Bethel Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 333 E. Ridge St., Ishpeming, MI 49849.

The family wishes to recognize the wonderful living conditions and care provided by Teal Lake Senior Living Community to Irma during her fairly brief stay.

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