Ernest Abraham Heikka, a resident of Ontonagon, passed away on November 26, 2011 while at home.

Ernest was born in Hancock on March 13, 1917 to the late Peter Abram Heikka and Maria Sofia Kortesoja. In his younger years, Ernie lived in Hancock, Atlantic Mine and Princess Point. Ernie was united in marriage to the late Mayme Helen Lehto on September 28, 1940 in Detroit. He was a devoted husband to Mayme. They made their home in Mass City and raised 4 children.

Ernie enjoyed the Tigers, Packers, fishing on Lake Superior and playing pinochle with friends. He had been a volunteer fireman, school bus driver, was employed with the railroad service, and was a painter and carpenter. He was a member of the Apostolic Lutheran Church. Ernie had a soft spot for animals, especially his canine companions.

Preceding him in death are his parents; wife, Mayme; 3 brothers: Peter, Wayne and Leo; and 2 sisters: Elizabeth and Ester.

Surviving are his sister, Elma Heikka, Newport, MI; stepbrother, Carl Horsma, Lake Linden; four children: Elwood (Joan) Heikka, Henderson, NV, Ronald (Vija) Heikka, Madison Heights, MI, Dennis (Susan) Heikka, Las Vegas, NV, and Charlene (Steven) Moreau, Ontonagon. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services for Ernest will be held Friday, December 2 at 2 p.m. at the Cane Funeral Home in Ontonagon. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Greenland following the service.