Laura J. Sloney

Laura was born April 24, 1918 at home in Humboldt Twp., MI to Viljo “William” and Maria (Humalamaki) Mattila. Her mother passed away shortly after giving birth to Laura and was raised by her foster parents Oscar and Hulda Niemi. Laura grew up in Ishpeming and graduated from Ishpeming High School, class of 1936.

Following graduation Laura moved to Battle Creek, Michigan and worked for the Michigan State Department of Employment. In April 1940 Laura met Willard Sloney and married on New Year’s Day 1941. Laura and Willard moved to Ontario, CA in 1966 where Laura worked for the Federal Flight Administration for 24 years, retiring in 1968 at 60 years old.

Throughout her 50 years of marriage to Willard they were active in many recreational pursuits: avid dancers, distinctive shuffleboard and billiards competitors. She also loved playing competitive board games, traveling across the United States pulling their trailer.

Laura is survived by 4 children: Douglas Sloney of San Bernardino, CA, Pamela Tull of Mesa, AZ, Willard “Bud” Sloney of Palmdale, CA and Judith (Fred) Mattila of Champion, MI, a sister Martha Hill of Hancock, MI, 3 brothers: Elias (Shirlee) Mattila of Silverdale, WA, Ronald Mattila of Palmer, MI and Fredrick Mattila of Champion, 7 grandchildren and 5 step grandchildren: Jonathan (Danette) Tull, Jenifer (Kirk) Tull-Gauger, Brenda Mondragon, Kevin (Michelle) VandyBogurt, Korinna (Michael) Rafferty, Nicholas (Amy) VandyBogurt, Don Mattila, Mark (Marisa) Mattila, Erik Mattila, Jeremy Mattila and Eli (Amanda) Mattila, 10 great grandchildren, 12 step great grandchildren, along with great great grandchildren, great great step grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Laura was preceded in death by her biological and foster parents, husband Willard Sloney, 2 sisters, 3 brothers, 3 half-sisters, 5 half-brothers, 1 foster sister and 1 foster brother.

Honoring Laura’s request, cremation will take place and a private service will be held at a future date.

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