Esther Kieranen

Esther was born May 10, 1935, in Wainola (Mass City), Michigan, daughter of Charles and Fannie (Rauvala of Toivola, Michigan) Laiti. During her youth she attended Mass City Elementary and High Schools (Mass Rockets), graduating with the class of 1952.

On August 21, 1954, Esther was married to Benhart Kieranen of Mass City where they then resided. Benhart preceded her in death on December 19, 1984. Both Ben and Esther were self-employed much of their lives, and in their mid to later years owned and operated Twin Lakes Resort, a seasonal cottage rental business beginning in 1960. Throughout this time, they met many long-time guest acquaintances, great friends, and families throughout the years, with such friendships continuing well into Esther’s life long later years.

Esther was a member of both the First Lutheran Church of Winona and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Mass City. She was a kind and thoughtful wife and mother, active in her life, and always energetic and dedicated to her various activities and work.

In their early years of marriage, both Ben and Esther were active members of The Camera Club, a monthly local sightseeing group with members from the Mass City, Greenland, and Ontonagon areas. Additionally, Esther helped to initiate a local Mother’s Club group which was generally associated with the Elm River Township Winona Elementary School and its K through 8 th grade students and teachers. Esther served for several years on the Elm River Township Board of Review, was a member of the Houghton- Keweenaw Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and was a member of the Kaleva Ladies Ainon Tupa.

Immediate surviving family are daughter Mary Kieranen of Twin Lakes, son Carl Kieranen of Twin Lakes, and grandsons Ben Kieranen, and Brandon Kieranen.

Esther was additionally preceded in death by her dear infant son Robert Kieranen, and her three older brothers: William, Edward, and Eino Laiti of the Mass City area.

According to Esther’s wishes, her earthy ashes will be interred at the Greenland Township Maple Grove Cemetery beside her dearly departed husband Benhart.

A peaceful family gathering in honor of Esther, her life, and our shared memories of her will follow and continue among her family, friends, and acquaintances for years to come.

To view Esther’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.

The Memorial Chapel Fuenral & Cremation Service – Mt. View Chapel of South Range is assisting the family with the arrangements.