Mary Paulson

Mary Ann was born in Baraga on May 8, 1942, and moved to the farm in Askel as a young child. She graduated from the John A. Doelle Agricultural School in 1961 and was employed for a time as a nanny in Chicago and as a waitress at the Dairy Mart in Ishpeming, where she met her husband, Joe.

As a stay-at-home mom, she was active as a girl and boyscout leader, volunteered for several years with the Marquette General Hospital Auxiliary in the gift shop, and enjoyed coffee klatches with the neighbor ladies on Lakewood Lane. Many summers were spent on road trips across the United States with a pull-behind camper, nicknamed “The Paulson Battle Wagon” for the differences of opinion often loudly expressed between family members during their epic journeys.

Mary Ann was artistic and creative, known for her beautiful stained-glass creations and flower gardens. She was a talented cook and her pasties were legendary. She had a cherished and fun-loving bond with her only grandchild, and together they enjoyed searching for treasures at rummage sales, taking rides around the Island, or just hanging out. She was an exceptional “Grannybird” to “Tittlemouse.”

Mary Ann is survived by daughter, Jamie Lynne; son, Lonnie Joe; and siblings, Cathy Heikkinen, Oscar (Beth) Heikkinen, Jennie Jukkala, Andy (Tina) Heikkinen; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Paulson; granddaughter, Ty Dolan; mother and stepdad, Mary and Ben Heikkinen; brothers, John Sziber and William Heikkinen; and in-laws, Gordon and Teresa Paulson.

Honoring her wishes, a private graveside service with the immediate family was held on July 7, 2023.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories of Mary Ann may be shared at canalefuneral.com.