Susan Claire Sihtala

Susan was born in Ishpeming, Michigan, on April 6, 1949, a daughter of the late John and Dorothy (Hooper) Dobson. She graduated from Ishpeming High School, class of 1967 and attended Northern Michigan University.

While attending college, Sue worked at Shopko in Marquette. Later, while raising her daughter, she owned and operated a knitting machine business in her home. During which time she developed many long-lasting friendships. She was a co-founder of UP Machine Knitters Club.

Sue later worked as an activities aide at Marquette County Medical Care Facility which she found very rewarding. She loved to read, travel, including cruises with family and friends. Her biggest joy was being a grandma to Emmalee.

Sue is survived by her husband, Ronald Stuart Sihtala; whom she married April 22, 1972, a daughter, Laura Sihtala, of Green Bay, WI; granddaughter, Emmalee Hill; a brother, Terry (Sue) Dobson of Saginaw, along with several nieces, nephews and many close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant son Jeffrey S. Sihtala, a brother, William (Pat) Dobson and sister-in-law, Peggy Dobson.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am – 11:00 am, on Wednesday January 20, 2021, at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home.

Due to COVID-19, masks are required, and respect social distancing guidelines.

Private service will be held for family and close friends. The service will be livestreamed at 11:00 Wednesday which will can be found at Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home Facebook page.

Interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Wesley United Methodist Church, 801 Hemlock St, Ishpeming, MI 49849, in memory of Sue.

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