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ISHPEMING, MI – Clifford A. "Cliff" Heliste, age 73, longtime area resident, passed away on Tuesday August 4, 2026 at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility while in the loving care of his family, and nursing home staff.
Cliff was born in Ishpeming on February 3, 1953, son of the late Arthur Heliste and Frances Anderson. He attended Ishpeming High School and graduated with the class of 1971. Following graduation he attended Lake Superior State University on a wrestling scholarship, before transferring to Northern Michigan University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in forestry. Following his graduation from Northern, he began his career working for Cleveland Cliffs in the Tilden and Empire Mines. Cliff also owned and operated the Strength and Fitness Center in Ishpeming for many years.
Cliff was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Ishpeming, and the Superiorland Pet Partners. Cliff truly had a love for animals, especially his dogs and would bring them volunteering at local schools, NMU, nursing homes, and the hospital. He loved lifting weights and ran the "Fit N' 50+" workout class at Anytime Fitness. Cliff enjoyed spending time at his place on the Dead River Basin, boating, fishing, and water skiing. In his younger years he also enjoyed snowmobiling during the UP winter months. Cliff enjoyed coffee clutching with his friends at the Ishpeming Senior Center and at McDonalds. He was also an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers. Growing up, he had fond memories of spending time with family at the camp out on Grant Lake in Republic, and visiting his Uncle Doc’s place.
Cliffs family would like to extend a special thank you to UP Private Duty, and to the entire staff at MCMCF for the excellent care and compassion they showed to Cliff and his family during his last days.
Cliff is survived by 2 daughters: Jodi (Daniel Swanson) Heliste, Cory Beth (David) Grigg, sister: Cheryl Sunne, brother: Douglas Heliste, and 2 grandchildren: Phoebe, and Ione. He was preceded in death by his parents, and half sister: Brenda Brown.
Cliff's family will greet relatives and friends on Thursday August 20, 2026 from 10:00am until 11:00am at Bethany Lutheran Church in Ishpeming. A memorial service will follow at 11:00am with Rev. J.M. Mills officiating. Interment will take place in the Ishpeming Cemetery.
Cliff's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.