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Jerry W. Oja

Oja, Jerry

ISHPEMING, MI – Jerry W. Oja, age 83, longtime area resident passed away on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at his home, while in the loving care of his family and UP Home Health and Hospice. Jerry was raised in the Humboldt area. He graduated at the age of 16, as the salutatorian, from Champion High School. He attended Michigan Tech and graduated as a mechanical engineer, in 1958. Jerry married, Margaret Rintamaki, on November 27, 1957. They moved to Seattle, Washington where Jerry was employed by Boeing. He was involved in the installation of missile silos around the United States and Canada. In 1963, Jerry was hired by Cleveland Cliffs. During his 25 year tenure, he became the superintendent of the Empire Mine. He retired in 1986, at the age of 49. Jerry’s strong work ethics were put into good use helping his children with may projects. He was always willing to give anyone a helping hand. He was a gifted woodworker, enjoyed fishing, partridge hunting, blueberry and raspberry picking, and traveling to visit his children and grandchildren. He was meticulous at keeping detailed records, journals and lists. Jerry and Margaret enjoyed winters in Arizona for 27 years. They spent 6 years as caretakers at Hasscib Lake Camp. He was a member of the Laestadian Lutheran Church of Ishpeming. Jerry is lovingly remembered by his spouse of 63 years, Margaret (Rintamaki) Oja, children- Daniel, Beth (Nathan) Simonson, Susan (Bruce) Johnson, Eric (Martha), Amy (Kevin) McEleney, and Paul, 43 grandchildren, 119 great-grandchildren, siblings- Judy (Ardean) Lahtela, Sara (Harry) Williams, Virginia (Charles) Prusi, and Kenneth (Theresa) Oja. He was preceded in death by his mother, Inga (Pesola), father, William, brother, Richard, great-grandson and his namesake, Jerry William Stewart. Jerry led by example with his willing and generous heart, his unconditional love and support of his family, and his simple faith in God. Private services for Jerry will be held. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to U.P. Home Health and Hospice at 510 Mather Ave Ishpeming, MI 49849.

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