James A. Pelto

Jim was born in Negaunee on June 14, 1942, son of the late Arnold and Florence (Davey) Pelto. He attended Michigamme Public Schools where he played basketball, and graduated with the class of 1960.

Following graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam war.

Jim was honorably discharged in June of 1966. Following his discharge, he moved to Milwaukee where he worked at Briggs and Stratton before moving back to the UP where he worked for Cliffs for 30 years until his retirement in 2009.

Jim was a member of the Ishpeming Elks, AmVets, and the Wawonawin Country Club. He was an avid golfer, enjoyed deer hunting at Vetas hunting camp, loved watching sports on tv, especially the Packers, and Brewers, and enjoyed going back to Michigamme on the 4th of July to celebrate with his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Kelly Pelto, two step-sons, Marc Goyen, Craig Goyen, twin sister, Lillian “Girlie” Meiers, two sisters, Jean Howe, and Linda Koski, brother, Eddie Olson Jr., former wife and friend, JoAnn Argall, four grandchildren, Logan, Scotty, Mark, and Chrissy Goyen, best friend and golfing buddy, John Ilves, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Louise Morris, Marian Howe, Gerald Pelto, two daughters-in-law, Darlene and Lisa Goyen, step-father, Edward Olson Sr., three brothers-in-law, James Howe, David Meiers, and John Howe.

Following Jim’s wishes, cremation will take place with private family services at a later date.

Jim’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at UP Health System Bell, the Trillium Hospice House, and Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice for the wonderful care they gave to Jim.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Trillium Hospice House at 1144 Northland Dr. Marquette, MI. 49855 in memory of Jim.

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