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Joanne Marie Solka, 86, of Ishpeming, passed away peacefully at her home on July 1, 2024. She is survived by her three daughters, one son, 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, one brother, and two sisters. A private family service will be held at a later date in her honor, and her memorial page is viewable at koskeyfuneralhome.com.
Joanne Marie Solka of Ishpeming Passes at 86
Joanne Marie Solka, a long-term resident of Ishpeming, MI, has passed away aged 86 at her home, surrounded by her loving family and under the care of Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice on July 1, 2024.
Born to Erick and Elsa (Wuokko) Ahtonen on February 6, 1938 in Negaunee, Joanne grew up in Republic before marrying Conrad Solka and setting up her home in Ishpeming. She was a dedicated employee at JC Penney in both Ishpeming and Marquette for many years.
Joanne was an active member of the AMVETS Auxiliary and the American Legion Post 114, Greenwood, Auxiliary. In leisure time, she loved camping, rummage sales, puzzles, and chaperoning the Blue Notes Drum and Bulge Corp trips.
Grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her joy. Known fondly as silly ‘JoJo’ to her great-grandchildren, they adored her ‘grandma bops’. She signed off every call reminding them, “goo-bye, remember I love you!”
Joanne is survived by three daughters: Debbie (Joe) Delongchamp, Pam Solka, Peggy Kutchie; one son, Jeffrey (Jamie) Solka; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; her brother, Jerry Ahtonen; and two sisters, Jan (Arvo) Lyyski and Judy (Phil) Colvin; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Conrad Solka, and sister-in-law Mary Ahtonen.
In line with Joanne’s wishes, a private family service will be held at the family camp on Schweitzer Basin. Her memorial page can be accessed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.
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