Virginia Ann ‘Jean’ Mannila

Virginia was born in Marquette, Michigan on March 13, 1931, a daughter of the late Mary (Janes) and William Fortin. Virginia worked as a cook at the former Morgan Heights Sanatorium.

Virginia was a member of the Negaunee Eagles. She enjoyed crocheting, working on puzzles, playing cribbage and BINGO. Virginia’s house was always open to family and friends where the coffee pot was always on. She was not only “mom” to her own children but to many more. She will be also missed by her dogs: Coco and Kenny.

Virginia is survived by her children: Shirley Mannila, Lois (Ray) McIntyre, Edward (Debra) Mannila, Scott “Potsie” (Staci) Mannila all of Ishpeming, Gail (Dean) Aho of Iron Mountain and Becky Hill of Palmer, a daughter in law Stephanie Mannila-Harvey of Americus, GA, a sister Mary Sundberg of Escanaba, 2 brothers: Kenneth Fortin of Ishpeming and Albert (Lois) Fortin of Trenton, FL, 17 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, a great-great expecting grandson, a special nieces Jeannie Lee along with numerous other nieces and nephews.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, husband Edward Mannila, life partner Sherman Spencer, a son Raymond Mannila, a grandson Adam Johnson and 6 brothers: Robert, William Jr., John, Clovis, Terry, and Earl Fortin.

Virginia’s family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00 am – 12:00 noon on Friday, June 21st at Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming where a memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon with Paul Olson officiating.

A potluck luncheon will follow at the Ishpeming VFW.

Inurnment will take place at the Nougat Cemetery.

A special thank you to the staff at MCMCF for their extraordinary care as many were like family to her.

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