Sylvia Datto

She was born in Detroit to Katherine (Butkovich) Hill and World War II veteran, Richard Bruce Hill. After her father was killed in action during the battle of Iwo Jima, Cookie moved to Hancock with her mother and sister JoAnne, where she attended Hancock schools, graduating in 1959.

Cookie was married to Tony Datto in 1960, and they went on to raise five beautiful children together. She was the matriarch of five generations, a role she carried with grace, strength, and endless love. She called her beloved grandchildren “doll,” a name spoken with affection that will echo in their hearts.

When her children were older, Cookie attended classes to become a certified nursing assistant and became a beloved employee at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility for 30 years. She made a profound difference not only in the lives of her patients but also their extended families. She also attended Suomi College for a few years, studying nursing.

Cookie found the most joy in family vacations and gatherings, including backyard barbeques, blongo ball tournaments, and game nights. It didn’t matter to her what she was doing as long as her family was together. She enjoyed cooking and baking and was an avid, competitive bowler in the area’s league for many years. Cookie’s laugh was like no other and lit up an entire room no matter where she was.

Her laugh brought comfort and joy and will forever be remembered.

Cookie was preceded in death by her parents; sister, JoAnne (Hill) Maul; and eldest daughter, Tina Frantila.

Cookie is survived by the father of her children, Tony Datto of South Range; her children, Cherri Datto, Karry (Mary) Datto, Dennece (Gary) Usitalo, and Chuck (Amy) Datto; and her 28 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cookie will be deeply missed and forever loved. Rest peacefully now, our angel.

We would like to sincerely thank the Aspirus Family House and the Omega House for the abundant love, care, and compassion they bestowed upon our mother and family.

A funeral mass of Christian burial will be held to honor Cookie at 12 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church in Houghton, with Fr. Corey Litzner to officiate. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass at the church.

Spring burial will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery in Houghton.

To view this obituary or to send condolences online to the family, please visit www.memorialchapel.net.

The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Hancock Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.