Elma Florence Hirvonen

ONTONAGON, Mich. — Elma Florence Hirvonen, 98, passed away in Ontonagon on Sunday, July 22, 2018, with her family by her side.

Elma was born to August and Hilda (Tuominen) Besonen in Trout Creek on June 11, 1920.

Elma moved to Detroit in 1938 to work. While there, she met Gene Hirvonen, who grew up about 7 miles from Elma in Paynesville, they married in 1942 in Ohio.

Elma worked as a housekeeper, nanny and for the automotive industry. She worked for Champion Spark Plug, Ford Motor Company, Burroughs Corporation, American Motor Company and General Motor Company which she retired from in 1981 after 25 years of service. After her retirement they wintered in Florida. Although they lived in Detroit, there were many trips to the U.P. to see family hunt and fish.

Elma loved to dance, play cards, shop and travel. She traveled the U.S., including Alaska. She went to Finland with her niece, Marion. Casinos were always fun with Elma. Family meant a lot to Elma and she always liked to help those out in need.

She is survived by her daughter, Delores Baily; her sister, Shirley Madden; grandchildren, Vonda (Shawn) Lukkari and Thomas (Jeana) Baily; and great-grandchildren, Tyler, Alexis, Samantha, Noah and Nicole.

Elma was preceded in death by her spouse, Gene; her parents; siblings, John, Waino, Arne, Tynne and Taimi; her good friend, Eleanor Hillson; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place Friday, July 27, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Trout Creek, from 11 a.m. until time of services at noon with Pastor Jay Welshonse officiating. Burial will be in Trout Creek Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Trinity Lutheran Church, Trout Creek, would be appreciated.

The Cane Funeral Home, of Bruce Crossing, is assisting the family.