Michael Robert Wiita

BESSEMER, Mich. - Michael Robert Wiita, 73, of Bessemer, beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend, was received with open arms to our Lord on Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, at Aspirus Ironwood Hospital.

Mike was born on Nov. 10, 1948, in Bessemer Township, a son of Donald Andreas and Viola Marie (Sipponen) Wiita. Mike was a 1967 graduate of Wakefield High School. He attended the Henry Ford School of Forestry in Alberta, Michigan, obtaining certification as a lumber grader.

On Sept. 2, 1995, he was united in marriage to Sharon Ann Machesky.

Mike was an extremely active and faithful member of All Saints Lutheran Church in Wakefield. He donated many hours, serving as council member, president of the churchmen's club and property committee, leader of "God's work - Our hands," a caring minister, usher, greeter, counter and reader.

Mike worked locally as a lumber grader for Kimberly Clark, Connor Lumber Mill, Steiger Lumber Mill as well as Meeder Lumber Company in Mancelona, Michigan, and was contracted out as a lumber grader in Medford, Wisconsin.

He was blessed with a son, Thor, from a previous marriage. The love he had for his son was immeasurable. He relied on the local lakes for many fish in order to deliver a fish fry every Friday to Thor. Mike also made Thor homemade jerky, unbakeables and frequently ordered his favorite onion pizzas, made many trips to the Holiday gas station for sandwiches, Ma's Restaurant for onion rings, onion salad and Dairy Queen for treats.

Mike is survived by his wife of 27 years, Sharon, Bessemer; a son, Thor, Wakefield; three brothers, Donald II, Thomas and Gerald (Kathy), all of Wakefield; six sisters, Judith Ruditis, Wakefield, Kathryn (Dwayne) Wiita-Fisk, North Charleston, South Carolina, Peggy (John) Garvey, Streamwood, Illinois, Nancy (Jim) Clowney, Summerville, South Carolina, Amy (Mike) Rahko, Ironwood, and Vicky Wiita-Templer, Hurley, Wisconsin; five grandchildren, Alexis, Jacob, Jordon, Maddix and Lucas; an uncle, Dennis (Lettie) Pelto, Wakefield; numerous dear nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and godchildren; many cousins; and special friends - you know who you are!

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother-in-law, John Ruditis; and a majority of his aunts and uncles.

Family was important to Mike. Although not always easy, Mike made sure that his son went fishing and enjoyed many outdoor activities with him. He always had time to show his love by stopping by with bakery in hand ready to listen to anything you had to say.

Fishing was a big part of Mike's life. He and Sharon hosted many fish fries at their home. He loved the outdoors and could fix just about anything. He loved to play smear and cribbage and took daily walks to the Bread of Life Bakery to visit and get goodies for everyone.

If you knew Mike, you would find a person who loved, helped and ministered to anyone in need.

Mike didn't need much out of life, but gave so very much back to all. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him!

A celebration of Mike's life will be held at All Saints Lutheran Church in the spring.

His final resting place will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Wakefield.

Contributions may be made in Mike's memory to All Saints Lutheran Church, 1202 Putnam St., Wakefield, MI 49968.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with their arrangements.