Michael E. Takala

Mike was born Feb. 28, 1962, in Crystal Falls, the son of Norita (Baranski) Takala and the late Wes Takala.

He graduated from Manistique High School in 1980, moved to Illinois where he met Donette Bleiler, fell in love and married on July 22, 1989. Mike relocated his family back to the Upper Peninsula in 1996, fulfilling the dream of establishing his family farm.

Mike’s property was his sanctuary, he took pride in tending to the land and sustaining his homestead. As an avid outdoorsman, hunting and fishing were integral to the life that he enjoyed. His greatest pleasure came from spending time with his family who brought purpose to his life.

Mike was a carpenter by trade through his business, Mike’s Creative Hardwoods. He was a skilled craftsman and a talented woodworker, you could always find him busy in his workshop. Mike’s talent not only produced a customized home, but also many meaningful items for his loved ones. He was proud to work with his son, Wesley, owning and managing local rental properties. Mike’s legacy lives in the custom works he built, the lives he touched, and the family he loved.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Donette; his son, Wesley Takala (fiance, Wendy Maki) of Crystal Falls; his daughter, Sarah (Adam) Eury of Pittsburgh, Pa.; his mother, Norita Takala of Champlain, Minn.; a brother, Joseph (Heather) Takala of Manistique; two sisters, Marge Takala of Fruitport, Mich. and Maija (John) Blobaum of Champlain; his two grandsons, Titan and Desmond; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father, Mike was also preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Jere Joynson.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 14 at the Nash Funeral Home in Crystal Falls. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Pastor Vicky Prewitt will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in his memory.

Condolences to the family of Mike Takala may be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net.

The family has trusted the Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with the arrangements.