Norman C. Hongisto
Norman C. Hongisto, age 85, of Sullivan, MO, passed away on Saturday, October 27, 2018 at Meramec Nursing Center in Sullivan, MO.
Norman Hongisto was born on November 11, 1932 in Wakefield, MI, to Nikolai Hongisto and Alma M. (Ronn). He grew up and attended school in Wakefield, MI, graduating from Wakefield High School in 1950. After high school, Norman worked for a short time before entering in the U.S. Air Force. He honorably served for four years, until his honorable discharge. He married Marian Jiongo in September of 1952 and to this union five children were born. The Hongisto family moved to Sullivan, where Norman worked for the Meramec Mining Company. In 1976, he went to work for MSHA (Mine Safety & Health Administration) as an inspector. After residing in several other states, he retired in 1995, the same year his wife, Marian, passed away. He relocated back to Sullivan in 2016 to make his final home. Norman enjoyed camping and carpentry, and was especially fond of singing in the Finnish Choir back in Michigan. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Norman is survived by four daughters: Gayle Gawer of Sullivan, Joanne Bott and husband Lewis of Bourbon, MO, Carol Hardaway and husband Joe of Helena, AL, and Lisa Massey and husband Bradley of Leasburg, MO; one son, Wayne “Butch” Hongisto and wife Marilyn of Sullivan; fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 42 years, Marian; three brothers: Arnold, Richard, and Robert; four sisters: Lillian Kerschner, Eileen Koski, Pearl Linn and Peggy Liuha; and one grandson, Jeffrey Gawer.
A Remembrance memorial service was conducted 10 a.m., Tuesday, October 30, 2018 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Sullivan, with Pastor Lew Ensor as the officiant. Inurnment followed in I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Sullivan, with full military honors.
Memorial contributions may be given to St. Matthew Lutheran Church.
Friends may send online condolences to the family of Mr. Hongisto at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan & Bourbon, MO.