Danny Ayotte

Danny was born February 9, 1946, in Ishpeming to the late Arthur and Lillian (Aho) Ayotte and graduated from Ishpeming High School, Class of 1966. After high school, he was drafted into the military and served in the United States Army for two years and was honorably discharged in 1968. Immediately following his discharge from the military, he started his 34-year mining career with Cleveland Cliffs at the Ore Improvement Plant. He transferred to the Empire Mine in 1980, working in the pit as a shovel, grader, and dozer operator. Danny had health issues that led to his retirement in July, 2003.

People that really knew Danny would know a humble, kind, and soft-hearted man at the core that was often blanketed by his bark that was louder than his bite. He was a member of several pool and cribbage leagues in Ishpeming and Negaunee through the years.

Danny is survived by his two sons, Gary (Tammy) Ayotte of Green Bay and Scott (Amy) Ayotte of Gladstone; daughter, Diane (Tim) Dix of Negaunee; six grandchildren: Taylor and Gavin Ayotte, Cambrie Perala, and Logan, Carson, and Kamryn Ayotte; one brother, Steven (June) Ayotte of Ishpeming; nephew, Mark Ayotte; and nieces: Kim Orred, April Valela, Amanda Jacobson, Michielle Boyce, and Celina Ayotte. It may seem like a non-traditional family from the outside, but Danny’s bond with his former spouse, Tami Jandron and her children: Sara Jandron, Steven (Jess) Wainio, David (Michelle Knight) Mattson, and Melinda (Eric Goethe) Mattson; and grandchildren: Jordan (Sidney) Porter, Katrina Porter, Kayden, Lincoln, and Madison Mattson, and Talon and Nolin Goethe was no different than if they’d been related by blood. Danny will be greatly missed by his two furbabies he leaves behind, Aussie and Dumpling.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Ayotte; sister-in-law, Janice Ayotte; son-in-law, John Perala; his granddaughter, Addison Perala; former mother and father-in law, Gail and Clifford Jandron; and his four furbabies: Peanut, Frankie, Shiela, and Siggy.

Danny’s family would like to extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Jerold Napier for the many years of outstanding care he provided and did it with such compassion and grace and we will be eternally grateful.

Honoring Danny’s wishes, there will be a private gathering for the immediate family.

Mr. Ayotte’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com