Valerie Theresa Kivioja, age 72 of Rock, MI died Thursday evening July 28, 2005 at the Marquette General Hospital in Marquette where she was a patient.

Valerie was born November 7, 1932 in Escanaba, MI, the daughter of Morgan and Violet (Racicot) Connors. She was raised in McFarland and was a 1950 graduate of Rock High School. Following graduation she was united in marriage to Edwin Kivioja on November 11, 1950. They lived in Texas while Edwin was stationed there in the Air Force. They returned to McFarland where they made their home and raised their three children. Valerie was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Perkins and she served for many years on the Turin Township Election Board. Her children and grandchildren were very important to her, as was her dog. She will be sadly missed by her family and
friends in the McFarland and Rock communities.

Survivors include:

2 Sons: Rodney (Dianne) Kivioja of Grafton, WI; Gary (Pattie) Kivioja of Rock, MI

1 Daughter: Jill Kivioja of Columbus, OH

2 Brothers: Michael (Anita) Connors of McFarland, MI; Tim (Kathy) Connors of Skandia, MI

8 Grandchildren: Michelle, David, Jaime, Lisa (Tony), Andy, Amanda, Renee and Holly.

Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins

Her dog, Peppi

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Edwin in 1991.

Valerie’s family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Perkins. Mass of Christian Burial services celebrating the life of Valerie Theresa Kivioja will follow at 6:00 P.M. with Rev. Jacek Wtyklo officiating. Luncheon in the church basement will follow services. Burial will be in McFarland Cemetery.