Rita 'Caroline' Sironen

ONTONAGON, Mich. — Rita “Caroline” Sironen, 85, of Bruce Crossing, passed away on Friday, Nov. 6, 2020, at Aspirus long term care in Ontonagon.

Caroline was born in Wakefield to Helen (Isola) and Yalmer Soronen on Dec. 28, 1934. She graduated from Ewen High School in 1952. She married Jack Sironen on Aug. 8, 1953, in Ewen. They resided in Fort Smith, Arkansas while Jack was in the US Army. Upon Jack’s discharge, they returned home to Ewen with their daughter Laurel. They welcomed two sons, Ron and Corey, several years later. They resided there until Jack’s passing in 1980.

Caroline was employed by Tulppo’s Restaurant for many years and eventually retired from Settler’s Co-op in Bruce Crossing. Caroline was fond of “stuff” and always loved a good rummage sale and a good deal. She was a collector of many things. Some of our favorites are old notes, cards, buttons, thread and anything else she could store in her sheds for parts. She loved company, whether it was for a quick cup of coffee or a large, loud family gathering. No matter what the reason, she was always genuinely happy to see you and welcomed you with a smile.

Caroline is survived by her daughter, Laurel (Tom) Caudill of Bruce Crossing; her sons, Ron Sironen of Ewen and Corey (Missy) Sironen of Ewen; grandchildren, Chad (Meredith) Caudill, Casey (Steve) Vold, Chris (Holly) Caudill, Cole (Casey) Caudill, Jackie Sironen and Justin (Michelle) Sironen; seven great-grandchildren; a special sister-in-law, Eleanor; two brothers-in-law and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Caroline is preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her parents; brothers, Hugh and Roy (Eleanor) Soronen; sisters, Gloria (Paul) Nordine and Evelyn (George) Franti; and her long-time friend, Mike Tulppo.

Due to the pandemic, there will be no service at this time. A memorial service will be held when it is safe to do so.

The family would like to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff and health care workers at Aspirus long term care for their kindness and compassion.

Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family.

“If tomorrow starts without me,

And I’m not there to see,

If the sun should rise and find your eyes

All filled with tears for me:

I wish so much you wouldn’t cry

The way you did today,

While thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say.

I know how much you love me,

As much as I love you,

And every time that you think of me,

I know you’ll miss me too.

So when tomorrow starts without me,

Don’t think we’re far apart,

For every time you think of me,

I’m right here in your heart.”