JoAnn Sliger

BIG BAY, Mich. — JoAnn Sliger, 67, of Big Bay, passed away Friday Dec. 5, 2014, at the Mather Nursing Center while in the loving care of her family and UP Home Health and Hospice.

JoAnn was born Aug. 5, 1947, in Ontonagon, to Melvin B. & Viola E. (Knivela) Johnson.

She graduated from Trout Creek High School with the class of 1966 and received an associate degree from Gogebic Community College. JoAnn worked as a receptionist for the Western Folk Life Center in Elko, Nev.

JoAnn enjoyed reading and traveling. She enjoyed the camping life, living out of a fifth wheel camper for five years. JoAnn was a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary of Covington and the American Legion Auxiliary of Trout Creek.

JoAnn is survived by her husband, John Sliger, whom she married on July 2, 1966; three children, John (Ellen) Sliger, of Tallahassee, Fla., David (Rachel) Sliger, of Big Bay, and Julie (Dan) Spinek, of Richmond; four grandchildren, Miranda and Melissa Sliger and Madison and Nicolas Spinek; and a brother, Lyle (Renee) Johnson, of Kenosha, Wis.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Jon Johnson.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. EST today, Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014, at the First Presbyterian Church in Trout Creek with Rev. Jeffrey Helsius officiating. JoAnn’s family will greet relatives and friends at the church on Tuesday from noon EST until the time of service.

A luncheon will be held at the American Legion in Trout Creek following the service.

JoAnn’s obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.