Rhea A. Tuominen

Rhea was born February 6, 1926, in Marquette, a daughter of Joseph and Armelia (LaCourse) Yelle, and was a graduate of Negaunee High School, Class of 1943. She lived in Sands Township until age 17 when she moved to Marquette.

Her early work experiences were as a secretary for local area businesses. On March 31, 1951, Rhea was united in marriage to Wilho M. Tuominen in Marquette.

She later began a lengthy career as a secretary at Northern Michigan University until her retirement.

Throughout the years, she balanced her roles of devoted wife, mother, and homemaker with her work schedule, and was known for her dedication and strong work ethic.

She was a wonderful role model for her family. Rhea enjoyed crocheting, crafting, was a talented seamstress, an avid reader, and loved spending time with family and friends at camp in Big Bay. She had a real concern for people and over the years cared for many family members and friends.

Rhea was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church and the St. Michael Altar Society.

Rhea is survived by her two children, Karen (Kenneth) Weigel of LaCrosse, WI and Michael Tuominen of Marquette; her granddaughter, Emily Jacobson of Minneapolis, MN; her brother, Leo Yelle of Green Bay, WI; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Wilho in 2006; two sisters, Celeste Taccolini and Eileen Paris; and brothers, Clare Yelle and Earl Yelle.

The family will receive relatives and friends at St. Michael Catholic Church on Wednesday, May 15, beginning at 10:00 am. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am Wednesday with Rev. Greg Heikkala, pastor, as celebrant. A reception will follow in the Parish Center. Interment will be made in the Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Michael Catholic Church, 401 W. Kaye Avenue, Marquette, MI 49855.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the many caregivers who gave Rhea such wonderful, compassionate care throughout the years; and especially to her dear friend, Kay Crowley, who went above and beyond in enhancing Rhea’s quality of life.

Thanks also to caregivers Liz Hytinen, Mary Pleaugh, and Heather Myers for their devoted service to Rhea and her family.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswanson hansen.com