Helen E. Mannan

Helen was born at home to Henry and Sanna (Katjamaki) Kangas on April 19, 1925. She went to elementary school in Rumely and later graduated from Eben High School.

She married Norman Perander in June of 1943, in Ontonagon. They began their married life on a farm on the Norwich Road. They later moved into town and were blessed with two girls and two boys.

Helen stayed home and raised her children until 1964 and then went to work at the Eagles Club as a bartender for five years. She later worked as a baker at the IGA Store and also worked as a cook at Maple Manor Nursing Home until she retired in 1987.

In 1973, her first husband, Norman Perander, died. She married Bob Mannan on October 27, 1979. They made their home on River Road. After Bob retired, they spent their winters in Rockport Texas. When Bob died in 2000, she decided to still spend her winters in Texas and become a “Winter Texan”. Due to health issues in 2016, she stayed in Ontonagon year round.

Helen was a member of the United Methodist Church of Ontonagon, a lifetime member of the VFW Post 5600 Auxiliary, a lifetime member of the Ontonagon County Historical Society, a long time member of the Eagles Club.

She enjoyed a good book, jigsaw puzzles and a good game of cribbage with her kids, Carol and Robert. Over the years she also enjoyed traveling, gardening, bowling and dartball. While in Texas she played shuffleboard, various card games and many other activities at the RV Park. She also enjoyed music and attended the Porkies Music Festival for many years.

Surviving are her daughter, Carol Harry, son of Robert Perander, both of Ontonagon; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; several step-grandchildren; and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Shirley (Paul) Kaminen; son, Norman (Joyce) Perander; sister, Ali Pelto; and brother, Waino Kangas.

A private graveside service will be held at the Riverside Cemetery in Ontonagon with Pastors, Nelson Hall and Michael Laako officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Helen’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at canefuneralhome.com.