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HUMBOLDT TWP, MI – Paulette Virginia “Polly” Oates, 80, of Humboldt Township, passed away peacefully Monday evening, September 14, 2026 while in the care of her loved ones and UP Home Health & Hospice.
Polly was born November 8, 1945 in Ashland, Wisconsin and was adopted by Edward and Mamie (Huhta) Etelamaki. Together, they raised Polly and her four brothers in Palmer. Polly was a proud graduate of Negaunee High School, Class of 1963. Following graduation, she married the late Norman Oates and they enjoyed over 20 years together before his passing.
Polly worked many jobs prior to becoming a dedicated employee for Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company. She began as Lab Tech for ten years and then transitioned to a Laborer, retiring from the Tilden Mine with 30 years of service. Polly goes down in mining history as the first woman to retire and earn full benefits from CCI.
Polly was a former member of Eastwood Apostolic Lutheran Church in Negaunee. She loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and living the life of a pioneer woman. Following her husband’s passing, Polly purchased an old log cabin on 80 acres in the boonies of Humboldt Township, accessible only by a half-mile two-track road. She cared for and maintained her property, including plowing snow through the winter season, until her recent illness prevented her from doing so. In her free time, she enjoyed traveling and adventures with her family and friends.
Surviving are her three brothers: Daniel Etelamaki of Negaunee, Wallace (Bonnie) Etelamaki of New Baltimore and Alvin (Sharon) Etelamaki of Stephenson; her sister-in-law, Augusta Etelamaki; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Norman Oates in 1988; and her brother, Edward Etelamaki in August 2026.
Polly’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to Deb and Pam, and the wonderful staff of UP Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care provided.
A Celebration of Polly’s Life will be held at Koskey Funeral Home on Saturday, October 10th from 10:00 am until 12:00 noon. A reception and luncheon will follow at Polly’s home in Humboldt Township. Interment will take place with her husband in the Negaunee Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to UPAWS in her memory.
Polly’s memorial page may be viewed at www.koskeyfuneralhome.com.