Florence Mary Wiitanen

Mrs. Florence Mary Wiitanen, age 95, passed away Thursday morning, August 7, 2008, in Muskegon. She was born August 14, 1912 in Calumet, MI to William and Evaline Gareau and has resided in the Muskegon area the past 62 years. Florence was a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church, had been a church organist for over 50 years, and was involved with the "Music Makers" for 10 years. On October 19, 1946 she married Toivo Wiitanen, and he preceded her in death on May 1, 1997. Florence was also preceded in death by her step-grandson, Kristopher Bates and by 9 brothers and sisters. SURVIVORS include 2 children, Janet (Brian) Bates and Roger (Cathy Hager) Wiitanen, both of Norton Shores; 7 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 1 sister, Helen Gareau of Laurium, MI. THE MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be celebrated 11 AM Monday, August 11, 2008 at St. Thomas Catholic Church with Rev. Father Michael Olson presiding. Burial will be in Sunrise Memorial Gardens. VISITATION with Florence's family will be one-hour prior to the service. MEMORIAL GIFTS to St. Thomas Catholic Church or the Alzheimer's Association will be appreciated.