Pheobe Ordway

Phoebe was born to Abel and Lempi (Niemi) Tassava in Ironwood, MI. Phoebe’s Grandparents were John and Hilma Tassava and Andrew and Johanna Niemi. She was also step daughter to Lempi’s (2nd husband), Mr. Matt Leinonen. After spending her formative years on the (3) ‘Finnish’ family farms; Phoebe graduated from Luther L. Wright HS in 1949. She completed Cosmetology (School of Beauty) in Lansing, MI. Phoebe and Harold K. Ordway were married in 1953. The two celebrated 71 years of marriage in May 2023. Never a day passed, without love and devotion to one another being evident. The Ordway’s began their home and family in Indian River, MI, where they owned and operated (2) businesses: “Phoebe’s Beauty Salon” (1957-1998) and The “Little Read Bookstore” (2007-now).

The Ordway’s were long time members of IR United Methodist Church, where Phoebe played the organ/piano for services, was a member of the United Methodist Women’s group and church historian. Phoebe passed her works on to her friend, Mrs. John (Mary Jane) Schofield. Beginning in 1968, the Ordway’s made frequent trips to “winter” in Florida. After retirement, Harold and Phoebe continued as “Snowbirds”. They attended St Paul’s Methodist and First Baptist churches of Melbourne. One such time, the couple affirmed their faith in Christ and were baptized (immersion) by Pastor Jeff Rhodes. (Formerly of Manistique, MI.) The two volunteered numerous hours for the Melbourne Police Department, VFWs and the American Legion.

Phoebe’s heart was blest by her family’s military service through the years. Her husband, Harold and his stepfather, Albert Haberkorn, her Uncle Wilbert Niemi, Brother in-law(s) George Whitfield and John Hay filled a special place in her heart as WWII Veterans. Three (3) of the Ordway children and (2) of their spouses, (2) grandsons and one close family friend, Gary Howard also served various branches of the US Armed Services during recent wars and peace. One son, Roy Ordway, also served and retired as a Michigan State Trooper.

Phoebe could never just sit idle without working with her hands. Even if watching her favorite TV, “Wheel of Fortune† and Jeopardy, †” she’d be busy knitting/ crocheting mittens, slippers, scarves, afghans, hats to keep her loved ones warm. Phoebe enjoyed building Jigsaw puzzles and word games. Harold used to say “Phoebe Bird, you should rest!” Now, that day has come!

“Grama, Momma, Sister, Auntie, friend” ~ Phoebe will be remembered for different things. But, we all know of the kitchen spot called “Grama’s Corner” full of delectable goodies.

Phoebe a ‘natural’ writer; wrote articles, journals, cards and letters to brighten people’s lives. She often wrote of experiences and travels, even her first flight in 1978 to Spain/ Portugal just to rock a grandbaby. Phoebe had a ‘Pen Pal’ (per se) known as ‘Grampa Uva’. (Uva), Mr. Edgar A. Senior lived in Barranquilla Colombia, SA, was a renowned sports columnist. Though they never met in person, they held to a fond friendship bridging cultures and countries for years and distance.

Phoebe can best be described as a “Proverbs 31 woman” and will be forever loved by her five (5) children: Bethany Ordway of Indian River, Larry Ordway of Indian River, Marsha (Pete) Senior of Florida, Roy (Jennifer) Ordway of Alpena and Mark Ordway (Michele Marion) of Arizona, (8) grandchildren; Jay Ordway of Texas, Aaron Vorac of North Carolina, Nicolai Vorac of Alanson, MI., Jacob, Kelsey, Justin Ordway of Alpena and Lansing, MI., Jacob Senior of Florida and Benjamin Senior of Alabama and their families, (18) great- grandchildren and twin great-great grandbabies (on the way).

Phoebe will be greatly missed by her brother and sister in-law, Roy and Carol Tassava of Topinabee, MI. and brother in-law, Robert Nystrom of Marquette, MI and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Phoebe was preceded by her sisters, (“Lempi’s girls”) in order of their passing: Mrs. Robert Nystrom (Evelyn), Mrs. John Hay (Esther), Mrs. Robert Knoblauch (Hilma) and Mrs. George Whitfield. (Laila aka Laila Hansen). Phoebe was also preceded by ‘sister-friend’ Adelaide Elsa (Vidal) Senior.

Phoebe requested there not be a funeral. She thought maybe you’d like to listen/sing her favorite songs: “Nearer My God to Thee” by Sarah Flowers Adams, “By the Gentle Waters” by Cindy Berry, and “How Great Thou Art” by Carl Boberg, (Harold’s favorite, too), while you smile and think of God’s love and hers for you!

The Stone Funeral Home of Indian River assisted the family and they are grateful.