NEGAUNEE, MI- Rose Elizabeth ‘Bettie’ Ahola, 86, passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, January 28, 2024 at Eastwood Nursing Center in Negaunee.

Bettie was born January 9, 1938 in Negaunee to William and Rose ‘Elvi’ (Hanninen) Hyry, and graduated from Negaunee High School. She continued her education at Gogebic Community College, where she earned her Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies. Bettie worked over 20 years at KI Sawyer Air Force Base as a public affairs specialist and followed that with a career working as a paralegal for Pricilla Bernem Law.

Ms. Ahola was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Negaunee as well as had been a group leader for the Girl Scouts, a workshop leader for the Women’s Center, and enjoyed leading Sunday School especially when her children were attending. Bettie was a diligent and proud member of AA and was always willing to share her story with anyone in need of guidance.

In her spare time, Bettie was an avid reader. She liked any form of mystery and kept a rotation going from the library. In her day, she was an expert at sewing, needle point, knitting, and crocheting, creating many outfits and afghans for her family that they still hold dear today. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and always joked about enjoying her desert before dinner.

Bettie loved visiting with friends and family and enjoyed tea parties filled with laughter and conversation. She was a loyal friend, a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was always someone that anyone could turn to if they needed clarity.

Surviving are her brother, William (Caryl) Hyry of Ludlow, MA; her son, Kori Ahola of Cathedral City, CA; daughter, Jana Ahola (Don) of Skandia, MI; grandchildren: Krista White, Kandel Ahola, and Kyle Overmyer; and her great-grandchildren: Dixie, Stetson, Roan, Hazel, Piper, Maverick, and Mayzie.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her youngest brother, Phillip Hyry; and her cousin, and dear friend, Ann Marie Paris.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 10th at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Negaunee, with Rev. Bre Kinnunen officiating. Interment will be in Northland Chapel Gardens. The family will greet relatives and friends from 9:00 AM until the start of services at 11:00 AM at the church on Saturday, and also at a luncheon immediately following services in the church fellowship hall.

Ms. Ahola’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com