Norman Matt Lahnala

Norman Matt Lahnala, born in Pelkie, MI on April 2nd, 1932, son of the late John and Anna (Siira) Lahnala, died of pneumonia related to complications of a stroke in Indiana on February 14th, 2011, with his family by his side, at the age of 78.

He served in the US Army for 2 years and was a veteran of the Korean War. Norman married Jeanie Kargi on July 28th, 1962. He worked for Chrysler in Detroit, MI for 18 years, moved back to Pelkie in 1967 where he worked as a welder and then for the DNR. He retired in 1997.

He enjoyed deer hunting, gardening, riding his 4-wheeler and visiting with family and friends. This past Summer he enjoyed trips to Alaska, Lower Michigan and Indiana to spend time with his family.

Norman was a unique and charismatic man whose dry wit and "one liners" kept family and friends laughing even during his time of illness.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanie; daughters, Lori (Robert) Palmer of CA, Jacquelyn (JJ) Orlando of MI, Michelle (Tim) McLean of MI and Shannon (Doug) Lahnala Bleau of IN; 4 grandsons, Coleton Palmer, James, Jonathon, and Nicholas Orlando, and grandchild Lahnala Bleau due in April; nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Edward and Jim, and sister Mary Jane.

A graveside service with military rites will be held in the Alston Cemetery on May 21st at 11:00 a.m.

The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse, MI is assisting the family.