NORWAY, Mich. - Andrew Matthew Hongisto, 75, of Norway, passed away on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026.

Andrew was born on May 4, 1951, in Wakefield, the son of Andrew Matthew and Loretta (Peterson) Hongisto. Andrew married Christine Aloisia Marchlik on Nov. 7, 1970, and together they were blessed with three children.

Andrew, also known as “Andy” or “Antti,” attended Gogebic Community College after high school, earning a degree in construction management. He worked as a mason and was employed at the White Pine Copper Mine and the Bessemer Plywood Plant. He later earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and Master’s in Administration from Northern Michigan University.

Upon receiving his degrees, Andy, Christine and their family moved from Wakefield to Norway in 1987. During his educational career, he served as a second-grade teacher, special education director, elementary and middle school principal and ultimately superintendent.

Andy and Christine also owned Vintage Gardens, a local nursery that provided landscape architectural designs, perennials and garden waterscapes to the surrounding area.

Andy enjoyed swimming and served as a lifeguard at Sunday Lake Park in Wakefield. His love of Lake Superior and Lake Gogebic brought the family together for many wonderful summers at the lake, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

He was known for his love of horses and trail riding. He found great joy in spending time outdoors and on the trail, making unforgettable experiences that will be treasured by all who knew him.

Andy was a devoted sports fan, proudly cheering on the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers, Milwaukee Bucks and University of Michigan. His love for Michigan ran deep—Go Blue! He also enjoyed watching NASCAR racing and especially loved watching his own son race at Norway Speedway.

Andy was especially proud of his grandchildren and their many hobbies and talents. He was blessed by their culinary arts, their love of camping, horseback riding, the outdoors and swimming. He even incorporated a concert rock into the backyard landscape—a place where his grandchildren could share their music while enjoying lazy summer evenings filled with hot dog roasts, s’mores and bonfires together.

Andy was preceded in death by his loving wife, Christine; his parents, Andrew and Loretta; his sister-in-law, Alfrieda Mattila; his brother-in-law, Duane “Butch” Mattila; a nephew, Stephen Semenak; his grandmother, Lillian Risula; and an aunt, Viola Mattson.

He is survived by his three children, six grandchildren, one great-grandchild, along with many extended family members. Andy was deeply loved by his family.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to family and friends for their thoughts, prayers, love and support during this difficult time.

A private family service will be held.

Expressions of sympathy for the family may be mailed to Andrew Hongisto, 417 Wymore Ave., Kingsford, MI 49802.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.