Joan Carol Pynnonen

Joan was born January 4, 1937 in Ishpeming to John and Belva (LaMora) Fassbender, graduated from Ishpeming High School, Class of 1955 and was a lifelong area resident. She was united in marriage to Robert ‘Butch’ Pynnonen in 1956, and together they raised their two children. Joan was a loving and devoted homemaker to her family.

Mrs. Pynnonen was a devout member of St. Paul Catholic Church, Negaunee, where she very active in the church choir, attended prayer groups, and enjoyed retreats at Marygrove. Joan was very devoted to her family, especially her beloved grandchildren. Many wonderful memories were made at the family camp on Bass Lake. She also would babysit several local kids, providing a loving environment for all who came. In her spare time, she enjoyed cooking, playing Bunko, and joining her friends for ‘club.’

Surviving are her loving husband, Robert ‘Butch’ Pynnonen; son, Jeff (Angie) Pynnonen of Copemish, MI; daughter, Jill (Martin) Madsen of Ishpeming; 6 grandchildren: Noel (Dan) Sutherland, Trevor (fiance, Amanda) Pynnonen, Nick (Taylor Jo Roman) Pynnonen, Tyler (Kaley Marok) Pynnonen, Matthew (fiance, Rachel) Matta and Mitchell (Amie) Matta; 10 great-grandchildren with two more on the way; a sister, Faye (David) Rickstad; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Karl (Margie) Fassbender and Jean Culley.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3:00 PM on Monday, December 9th at St. Paul Catholic Church, Negaunee, with Rev. Larry Van Damme officiating. The family will greet relatives and friends from 1:00 PM until the time of Mass at 3:00 PM at the church on Monday, and also at a luncheon immediately following services in the St. Paul School Gymnasium. Joan’s son and grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Torreano family, especially Mary and Barry, for their longtime friendship and care provided.

Joan’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com