Nelda L. Argentati
June 18, 1928 - Oct. 16, 2024
IRON RIVER — Nelda L. Argentati, 96, of Iron River, MI, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at the Iron County Medical Care Facility in Crystal Falls, MI.
She was born on June 18, 1928, in Caspian, MI, the daughter of Daniel and Concettina (Dalessandri) Mongiat. She attended the Stambaugh Schools, graduating with the class of 1946. Her success and skill in business classes, particularly shorthand, served her well in her secretarial career.
Nelda married Elio Argentati on August 20, 1955, at St. Cecilia Parish in Caspian, MI. They shared a long life together and celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary in 2017. Elio preceded her in death on August 22, 2017.
Nelda was employed as a secretary for Upper Peninsula Power Company in Iron River, a position she loved. She worked at UPPCO for seven years, and during that time, she met Elio. They moved to Minnesota and shortly afterwards, he began his highly successful career with UPPCO in Escanaba attributing his start to Nelda. Eventually, they moved to Dollar Bay and raised their family while Elio continued working at the Corporate Office in Houghton until his retirement, and subsequently moved to Hagerman Lake. Nelda continued working at part time secretarial positions plus did volunteer work at the hospital and the high school during this time period. After returning to Iron River, she became a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, the Altar Society, and the Hospital Auxiliary. Nelda was an accomplished artist in oils and watercolors taking courses by various instructors. She often participated in craft shows, juried art shows, and did commission work as requested. She also enjoyed sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting, cooking, and entertaining family and friends. She tested her word skills in Scrabble and Words with Friends. An avid reader, Nelda would often be found perusing through two or more newspapers and several magazines. Always interested in local history, Nelda was active in volunteering at the Iron County Historical Museum. She enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Italy to see her relatives. For several years, Nelda, Elio, and family spent time vacationing at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island where they created lasting memories.
Nelda is survived by her son, Dan (Kimberly) of South Lyon, Michigan, and grandchildren, Laura and Ella and step-grandsons, Matthew and Brendan; daughter, Lori (Kevin) Grundy of Wausau, Wisconsin, and grandchildren Gregorio, Patrick, and Marisa; sister-in-law, Cathryn Mongiat of Davenport, IA; brother-in-law, Andrew Busakowski of Gaastra, MI; nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
She was also preceded in death by her brother, Raino Mongiat; sister, Lillian Busakowski; and sister-in-law, Dolores Lindstrom.
Truly a warm, giving, and loving person, Nelda will be missed by all. Her contributions and dedication to her family will be remembered forever.
The family would like to thank Victorian Heights for their wonderful assistance and the Medical Care Facility in Crystal Falls for their dedication and care.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River.
Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church with Rev. Daniel Fosu to offer the Mass of Christian Burial.
Interment will be in Resthaven Cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed to the family of Nelda L. Argentati online at www.jacobsfuneralhomeir .com.
Funeral arrangements by the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River.