Houghton Obituaries

Introduction to Houghton Funeral Home

Houghton Funeral Home, located at 401 Memorial Rd., Houghton, MI, 49931, has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the Upper Peninsula, this funeral home has established itself as a trusted and reliable partner for those seeking to honor their loved ones.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Houghton Funeral Home's commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their operations. From the moment you step into their facility, you'll be greeted with warmth and understanding. Their dedicated team of funeral directors and staff are trained to provide personalized attention to each family, ensuring that every detail is meticulously cared for. Whether you're planning a traditional funeral, cremation service, or memorial celebration, Houghton Funeral Home's experts will guide you through the process with sensitivity and compassion.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Mamie Karpinen - July 10, 1926 - August 21, 2021

Departed: 08/21/2021 (Houghton)

Obituary Preview: Calumet,

Mamie D. Karpinen, 95, a resident of Calumet, passed away Saturday August 21, 2021, at Green Tree of Hubbell Health and Rehab where she had been a resident patient for the past six months.

She was born on July 10, 1926, in Painesdale, MI, a daughter of the late Dominic and Josephine (Aimone) Feira. Mamie was raised in Painesdale and was a graduate of the Jeffers High School.

On October 19, 1946, she was united in marriage to Leslie Karpinen. The moved to make their home in Houghton. On April 1, 1968, Leslie preceded Mamie in death.

In 1971, Mrs. Karpinen moved to make her home in Phoenix, AZ, and since 1995, has made her home in Calumet.

Mrs. Karpinen was a member of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church of Houghton and a VFW Auxiliary member. Preceding her in death were her husband, her parents, her brother Dominic Feira, her sisters: Mary Stephanik and Irma Soumis and a special friend Alan Morin Surviving are: Her children: Lelsie (Lorraine) Karpinen of Park Falls, WI, David (Prisilla) Karpinen of Calumet, Lucille (Chuck) Brunner of Hartland, MI; 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildrenHer sister: Josephine Rockett of TexasHer sister-in-law: Susan Feira of South RangeNumerous nieces, nephews and cousins

A prayer service for Mamie will be held 11:00 am Wednesday August 25, 2021, at the Memorial Chapel/Mountain View Mortuary in South Range, with Fr. John Martignon to officiate. Burial will be in the Mt. View Cemetery of South Range.

Friends may call on Wednesday August 25, 2021, from 10 am until time of services at the Memorial Chapel/Mountain View Mortuary of South Range.

To view Mamie’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.

View Full Obituary

Helen Tomasic - April 18, 1922 - July 23, 2021

Departed: 07/23/2021 (Houghton)

Obituary Preview: Valley Glen, CA

Helen Tomasic was born on April 18, 1922, in Detroit Michigan and passed away peacefully at her home in Valley Glen, CA on July 23, 2021. She was the daughter of Josefa and Walter Pawlowski and the youngest of five children. In 1928, her mother died unexpectedly, and the family was forced to move from their beautiful farm in Emmet Michigan to Detroit. In 1939, at age 16, Helen married accordionist and machinist, John Tomasic. They lived in Royal Oak for 5 years, and in 1945, they moved to Dodgeville in Upper Michigan’s Copper Country, where John’s parents lived and owned a candy store. They lived with John’s parents in the house where John was born, and eventually the family home became their home. Helen and John raised two daughters there: June and Lindsay.

Helen had a lifelong love of learning and art. She enrolled in the adult education program at Houghton High School and earned her diploma in 1974 when she was 52. Shortly thereafter, she took a job as an Agent Teller at Detroit & Northern Savings and Loan in Hancock, where she was beloved by her coworkers and awarded for her administrative accomplishments. She held her position until 1984.

After John’s death in 1993, Helen continued to pursue her talents in arts and crafts. She crocheted many a beautiful doily, learned to work with stained glass, and took painting classes. Helen was also a gifted baker. Her povitica, cookies, and pies inspired music and poetry; however, it was her pasties that earned her fame. Helen was the 1st Prize Winner of Pasty Fest in 2007 in the Individual Traditional Pasty category at the Main Street Calumet Michigan Pasty Fest, and we nicknamed her “Pasty Queen.” She was a patient teacher of many bakers, graciously sharing her baking tips and secrets.

She had a natural way with living things. She was gifted with a green thumb, and her home was always filled with thriving plants and flowers. She always had a cat or a dog, invariably a rescue. Even wild animals (and people) were drawn to her naturally. Helen welcomed all people without judgment. She celebrated and brought out the good in people.

At the age of 91, Helen was convinced by her daughter Lindsay to leave the brutal winter weather in the Copper Country of Upper Michigan. She moved to Valley Glen, California in the fall of 2013, where she lived independently and enjoyed her Southern California bungalow filled with beautiful orchids until 2021.

Helen is survived by her daughters, June Julian of Rockwood, Michigan, and Lindsay Tomasic (Lane Jensen) of Valley Glen, California; two granddaughters, Dawn (Josh) Greene of Rock Springs, WY and Kari Tervo of Redondo Beach, California; a great-grandson, Matthew Jenkins (Desirae); two great-great-granddaughters, Ellie and Nora Jenkins; many nieces and nephews, and many surrogate family members who she embraced as part of her beloved clan.

To honor Helen’s memory, please make a donation to “Friends of The Elderly” (Upper Michigan Chapter)https://www.events.org/donation.aspx?o=517. Helen was a grateful recipient of the generosity and kindness of “Friends of the Elderly” from 2006 until she moved to Los Angeles in 2013.

View Full Obituary

Debbie Bradford - June 01, 1958 - May 25, 2021

Departed: 05/25/2021 (Houghton)

Obituary Preview: Houghton Debbie Lee Bradford, beloved friend and community leader, went home to Heaven on

Tuesday, May 25, 2021, following a lengthy, quiet battle with cancer.

Debbie was born on June 1, 1958 in Flint, Michigan to Shirley (Sigsby) and Jim Bradford. She enjoyed the adventure of growing up as one of the last of 14 children. She especially loved Camping with her family and participating in Girl Scouts, and she relished telling (and embellishing)

The stories of those early experiences. She graduated from Brandon High School in Ortonville, Michigan in 1976. After high school, Debbie Worked as a bookkeeper for a metro Detroit law firm for 11 years and attended Oakland University

For Paraprofessional Accounting.

In 1990, Debbie moved up to Houghton, Michigan to work for Bruce Rukkila in his accounting firm (subsequently called Rukkila, Negro and Associates). Through her work, she made friends throughout the Upper Peninsula. Through her volunteer work, she made friends throughout the world. Hosting many Rotary exchange students, leading Girl Scouts, coaching Little League Baseball, serving on the boards of non-profit organizations, and volunteering for Grace United Methodist Church for more than 30 years are just a few of the ways she invested her life in the lives of others.

She enjoyed camping, scrapbooking, reading, and spending time with friends and family. One of her treasured experiences was an epic trip across the country with her mother during Shirley’s later years. They plotted their course to see natural wonders and visit as many relatives as possible. In this and other ways, Debbie kept her family connected.

In addition to her dedication to serving others, Debbie was known for her sense of humor. She had a ready smile, an easy laugh and a twinkle in her eye. She was not intimidated by anyone. Everyone deserved both her respect and her teasing. Her authenticity enabled her to speak truth and have a lasting influence on the lives of many, many people. Debbie loved God, lived for Him and shared Him with others in all that she did.

View Full Obituary

Henry Simon Santeford - July 25, 1942 - February 14, 2021

Departed: 02/14/2021 (Houghton)

Obituary Preview: Superior Location

Henry Simon Santeford, 78, of Houghton, MI, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Sunday, February 14, 2021 after a long illness. He was born July 25, 1942 and grew up in Chicago Heights, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Simon and Charlotte Kirgis Santeford, and a sister Judith Ann Santeford (Robert) Gray.

Henry earned his Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Civil Engineering from Michigan Tech and began his teaching career at MTU shortly thereafter. Following the award of his PhD from Colorado State in 1972, Henry joined the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences as a staff research hydrologist in Washington, DC. His outstanding work coupled with his love of snow, ice, and mountains, made him the perfect candidate to head up the first National Weather Service/NOAA Field Station tasked with unraveling the mysteries of Alaska’s hydrology, especially vis-à-vis the concurrent Trans-Alaska Pipeline construction. Shortly, his passion for teaching lured him back to academia at University of Alaska, where he lectured at both the Anchorage and Fairbanks campuses. Henry’s expertise in cold region hydrology resulted in him becoming a US Representative to the UNESCO sponsored International Hydrological Program Northern Research Basin Symposium in 1976 where he continued to present his research biennially to his international circumpolar colleagues through the 1990s.

In 1980, the family moved back to their farm in Houghton, MI where he returned to teaching Water Resource Engineering with a focus in Cold Regions Hydrology at Michigan Tech. Highly respected by his students, Henry received the Chi Epsilon Outstanding Faculty Award time and again. He was faculty advisor for the MTU Ridge Roamers and the Four Wheelers Club for most of his tenure as well as an active board member for the John Wesley House. He was awarded the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from Michigan Tech in 1974 and retired as Professor Emeritus in June 2001.

Henry was a kind and gentle man who always had a smile and a story to tell, and was never too busy to lend an ear, or sprinkle words of advice, usually including the directive to “first draw a sketch!” A jack-of-all-trades, Henry magically appeared to help fix a water line, patch a roof, or serve a meal wherever he was needed. He was a 35-year fixture in the holiday kitchens of Little Brothers and, as the son of a carpenter, he constructed the large oak cross hanging in the sanctuary of Grace United Methodist Church. His faith defined who he was in his compassion and kindness for others, and he dedicated much of his time serving throughout the church.

He loved the outdoors, and over his lifetime Henry could be found riding his motorcycles, climbing mountains, hiking trails, splitting wood, planting gardens, or exploring new places with the curiosity of a child. “Isn’t that neat?!” he would say to anyone nearby, friend or stranger alike.

Henry is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sally Coanes Santeford; a daughter, Jodi Santeford of Chicago, IL; two sisters, Joyce Santeford Wagner of Tucson, AZ and Carol Santeford (Thomas) Miller of St. John, IN along with numerous nieces and nephews.

View Full Obituary

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comforting and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for saying goodbye to your loved one. The spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while the intimate visitation rooms offer a cozy setting for smaller, more personal services. Additional amenities include ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a convenient location near local cemeteries and places of worship.

Personalized Funeral Services

Houghton Funeral Home recognizes that every life is unique, and therefore, every funeral service should be tailored to reflect the individual's personality, interests, and accomplishments. Their experienced staff will work closely with you to create a customized ceremony that honors your loved one's memory. From traditional religious services to non-denominational celebrations of life, they'll help you craft a meaningful tribute that resonates with your family and friends.

Cremation Options

In recent years, cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for many families. Houghton Funeral Home offers a range of cremation options to suit your needs, including direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, and traditional funeral followed by cremation. Their state-of-the-art crematory ensures that your loved one is treated with dignity and respect throughout the process.

Pre-Planning and Advance Directives

Facing the reality of our own mortality can be difficult, but taking control of your final arrangements can bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones. Houghton Funeral Home encourages pre-planning as a way to ensure that your wishes are respected and your family is spared from making difficult decisions during an emotional time. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through the process of creating advance directives, allowing you to specify your preferences for funeral services, burial or cremation, and other important details.

Community Involvement

Houghton Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the local community and actively participates in various initiatives that support bereaved families and promote awareness about end-of-life care. They regularly host workshops, seminars, and support groups, providing valuable resources and connections for those navigating grief. By engaging with the community in this way, they demonstrate their commitment to helping people cope with loss and find healing.

Serving the Upper Peninsula

Houghton Funeral Home proudly serves the entire Upper Peninsula region, including Houghton County, Keweenaw County, Baraga County, and surrounding areas. Their proximity to local hospitals, nursing homes, and hospices enables them to respond quickly to families' needs, ensuring that timely and dignified care is provided during a difficult time.

Contact Information and Resources

If you're facing the loss of a loved one or would like to learn more about Houghton Funeral Home's services, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them directly at (phone number) or visit their website at (website URL). Additionally, they offer online obituaries, grief resources, and funeral planning tools to support you during this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online, or in a funeral home's website to inform friends, family, and acquaintances of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing essential information for those who want to pay their respects. They help to notify people of the passing, share details about the funeral or memorial service, and often include information about the person's life, accomplishments, and surviving family members.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes may also offer assistance in writing the obituary or provide templates to guide the process. In some cases, a professional obituary writer may be hired to craft the notice.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include details about the funeral or memorial service, such as date, time, location, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary can vary depending on the complexity and length of the notice. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to gather information and craft a well-written obituary.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the notice and celebrate the person's life.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper directly to inquire about their submission process and guidelines. Some newspapers may have online forms or email addresses where you can submit the obituary, while others may require you to visit their office in person.

Can I publish an obituary online only?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary without printing it in a physical newspaper. These platforms often offer additional features such as guest books, condolence messages, and photo galleries.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some publications may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or flat fees. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 or more for a single publication.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, changes cannot be made once an obituary has been published in print. However, if you've published online, you may be able to edit or update the notice through the platform's dashboard or by contacting their customer support team.

How long will an obituary remain online?

The duration that an obituary remains online varies depending on the platform or newspaper. Some may keep archives for several years or even permanently, while others may remove notices after a certain period.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including quotes, poems, or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can add a personal touch to the obituary and help celebrate their life.

Should I include a charity or donation information in an obituary?

If the deceased had a favorite charity or cause, it's a wonderful idea to include this information in the obituary. This allows friends and family to make donations in their memory and continue their legacy.

Can I write an obituary for someone who died many years ago?

Yes, you can still write and publish an obituary for someone who passed away years ago. This can be a therapeutic way to honor their memory and share their story with others.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites that specialize in storing historical records. Local libraries or genealogical societies may also have archives of old newspapers that you can access.

Can I republish an existing obituary?

If you've found an existing obituary that was previously published, you may be able to republish it with permission from the original author or publication. Be sure to give proper credit and acknowledge the source.

What is a death notice versus an obituary?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing that typically includes only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed notice that provides additional biographical information and context about the person's life.

Can I write an obituary for a pet?

Absolutely! Many people consider their pets to be part of their family and want to honor their memory with an obituary. You can publish this type of notice in local pet-focused publications or online platforms.

How do I deal with errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or platform where the obituary was published as soon as possible to report any errors. They may be able to correct the mistake or issue a correction notice.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Yes! Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be effective ways to share an obituary with friends and family who may not have seen it otherwise. You can also create a memorial page or group on these platforms.

Is it appropriate to include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! If the deceased had a great sense of humor or loved to joke around, including a bit of humor in the obituary can help celebrate their personality and bring smiles to those who read it.

Can I include music or video links in an online obituary?

Some online platforms allow you to embed music or video links within the obituary itself. This can be a unique way to personalize the notice and share meaningful songs or memories with others.

How do I handle condolences and messages from readers?

You can respond personally to each message or comment left on the online guest book or condolence page. Alternatively, you can designate someone else to manage these responses on behalf of the family.

What if I'm struggling emotionally while writing an obituary?

Taking on this task during a difficult time can be overwhelming. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member for assistance, or taking breaks as needed to process your emotions before returning to write the notice.