Arne Marttila, age 81, of 2401 1st Avenue South, Escanaba, died Monday January 24, 2005, at his home in Escanaba, following a lengthy battle with cancer.
Arne was born October 27, 1923, in Rock, the son of Charles and Lempi (Kainulainen) Marttila, who preceded him in death. Arne was raised in the Rock area and attended the Rock schools. In 1970, Arne met his life long companion, Donna Lanaville. Arne and Donna cared for each other and spent the last 34 years together. Arne enjoyed listening to music, dancing in his earlier years and watching the Finland Calling T.V. program every Sunday. Arne enjoyed fishing and on one particular occasion he and Donna went on a fishing trip in Canada.
Survivors include: His life long friend and companion, Donna
3 Sisters: Dora Johnson of Escanaba, MI; Viola (Arvid) Rasanen of Negaunee, MI; Jeanette Klies of Streamwood, Ill
Survivors also include several nieces, nephews and cousins
Arne is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lempi
2 Brothers: Wilbert and Bernard Marttila
2 Sisters: Eleanor (Matt) Rasanen and Aili Salo
Family will receive friends on Friday from 1:00PM to 3:00PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Funeral services celebrating the life of Arne Marttila will follow at 3:00PM, at the funeral home, with Rev. Brandon Korter of the 7th Day Adventist Church of Escanaba officiating. Luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. Burial will be in the Rock cemetery. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Marttila family with arrangements.