John C. Ylitalo

He was born on March 24, 1947, in Hancock, the son of the late Carl and Sylvia (Leinonen) Ylitalo. John grew up in Boston Location and was a graduate of Hancock High School with the class of 1965. He graduated in 1969 from Michigan Technological University with a degree in Electrical Engineering.

On Aug. 1, 1970, he was united in marriage to the former Margaret Witting.

John worked for the Chrysler Corporation and eventually returned home to work with his father in the family business: Northern Auto Inc. Along with owning Northern Auto, he was part of H&Y Marina, several other small businesses and organizations.

John enjoyed boating, fishing and hunting. Isle Royale; where he spent time every summer since he was 10, and the back country of Idaho were special places to him. He was a proud “Gramps” who loved spending time with his family and grandkids. He also enjoyed sharing his love of the outdoors with his extended family and friends on many boating and hunting trips over the years.

Preceding him in death were an infant son and his parents.

Surviving are his wife Margaret “Peggy” Ylitalo. His children, Mary (Joseph) Shanle, John (Rebecca) Ylitalo, and Kelly Ylitalo. His grandchildren, Connor, Maya and Tyler Ylitalo. Noah Shanle. Landyn Vencato. His sister Susan (Allen) Stone. Numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws.

A private graveside service for John will be held in the spring at the Lakeside Cemetery of Hancock.

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

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Hancock Public School Foundation or the Isle Royale Boater’s Association in memorial of John C. Ylitalo.

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