Jessie E. Onkalo

Jessie was born in Ishpeming on October 20, 1930, a daughter of the late Alice (Dower) and Anthony V. Kenney. Jessie was a graduate of the Republic High School, class of 1948, and received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from NMU in 1952.

Jessie’s first teaching job was in Waterford, where she taught for three years. While in the Detroit area she met her future husband Jacob C. Onkalo.

Jessie returned to Republic, and taught for the Republic School District for 28 years, mainly in the second-grade classroom.

Jessie is survived by two daughters, Susan (Mark) Marsy of Sparta, Kim Larmour of Fresno, California; three sons, Jon A. Onkalo of Republic, Charles (Karen) Onkalo of Houston, Texas, Mark Onkalo of Baraga; five grandchildren, Luke, Cory, and Alec Marsy; Chris and Morgan Larmour; two great-grandchildren, Calla and Demetri Marsy; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jacob C. Onkalo in 2008; and two sisters, Antonette Wilson and Jane Keskitalo.

Per Jessie’s wishes cremation will take place and a private interment will take place at the Republic Cemetery.

Jessie’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.