Elna M. Nikkila, 98, formerly of Mass City, died Tuesday, January 4, 2011 at the Aspirus Ontonagon Long Term Care Unit.

She was born January 31, 1912 in Rockport, Massachusetts, daughter of the late Herman and Ida (Knuutti) Kolari.

On September 29, 1959, Elna was united in Marriage with Matt Nikkila at the Northwest Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Southfield, Michigan. Matt and Elna were married by Matt's brother-in-law, the Reverend E. Olaf Rankinen. Matt preceeded her in death in 2001.

Prior to moving to Michigan, Elna was employed with Rockport Township in Massachusetts. She graduated from Rockport High School.

Elna was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Mass City. She enjoyed visiting with family and friends, writing letters, and reading.

She is survived locally by sisters-in-law Helen Rankinen of South Range, Elsie Nikkila and Eva Nikkila of Houghton; nephews Edward (Susan) Koski of Ontonagon, Jason Rankinen of South Range, and great-niece Kelli Koski of Ontonagon. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins who reside out of the area also survive her.

In addition to her husband, Elna was preceded in death by brothers Everett and Kaino Kolari, and sister, Ingeborg Kolari.

At Elna's request, there will be no funeral services. The Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family.