Bernice "Nanny" Huotari died in her home in Munising, MI on September 17th with family surrounding her. She was ready to be with her God and all the other angels she so missed. Nanny was born on October 3rd, 1940, to Richard and Martha Niemi. She loved to tell people that she was "born in a barn". Nanny went to school in Mass City and graduated Valedictorian. She often joked that she had taken chemistry to have the right mix for "diaper pails". Nanny served as the Ontonagon County Clerk for over 15 years. Nanny married Waino "Papa" Huotari on a hot June 6th day in 1959. They had seven children; Waino always wanted a "ball team".

Both Waino and Bernice were UP Horseshoe Champions and travelers to the World Horseshoe tournaments and the whole time Nanny was pitching horseshoes barefoot. Nanny and Papa were hard working, fun loving, and competitive in all that they did. Family was their passion, and family included anyone who shared that feeling. Nanny's extended family is far reaching and know that she loved you. Nanny is survived by her children Tammy Huotari, Tina (Jonathan) Fox, Todd (Lisa) Huotari, Tricia (Scott) Cleary and her siblings Lois Burt, Eino Niemi, and Judy Hiltunen. She cherished her grandchildren and great grandchildren very much. Sadly, Nanny was preceded in death far too early in her life by her husband of 39 years Waino, infant son Timmy, her daughters Terry and Tracy, her sister Darlene Ross, and her brother Wayne Niemi. Nanny prayed for whoever needed a prayer and she was ready to be reunited with all her friends and family in the beautiful garden above. On September 27th, a memorial service will be held to honor what she truly believed, that she was going home. Visitation will be held at St. Paul Lutheran church at 12:00 PM, with a memorial service to follow at 1:00PM. Graveside sendoff will be immediately following the service at Maple Grove Cemetery in Greenland. The family encourages you to join in her celebration of life at 4:00 PM at the Ontonagon VFW Post 5600. Nanny was always concerned about children going hungry. In her memory, we encourage you to "feed a kid" or honor her with a donation to any organization that you are passionate about. Her thanks and our thanks are endless. We would miss so many people if we tried to name you all. Dr. Ray, you were amazing. Tracy and Elaine (friends for life), Amy, Amanda, and all of the Northwoods staff. There were so many hospitalizations, we couldn't name you all. We can say that there were so many of you that were wonderful. Nanny fought until she couldn't fight anymore. Her SISU did not die, it is embedded in anyone she loved.

Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.