IRONWOOD, Mich. – Edward W. Armata, 71, of Ironwood, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021.

Ed was born on March 21, 1950, in Ironwood, the son of Edward Walter and Josephine (Malinowsky) Armata. He graduated from Luther L. Wright High School in Ironwood in 1968 and proudly served his country as a lance corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.

On May 4, 1974, Ed married the love of his life, Annette L. Nerva, at the First Lutheran Church in Wakefield by the Rev. Wayne Victor Kuusisto. They made their home in Ironwood and were blessed with a son.

His passion was woodworking, and through the years he created beautiful wood art.

Ed was a heavy equipment operator for the city of Ironwood.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Annette; a son, Christopher (Becky); his mother, Josephine Armata; a sister, Susan Eilo; three brothers-in-law, Ronald (Sylvia) Nerva, Randy (Sandy) Nerva and Mike Hantula; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Ahlborn (Don Dixon) and Jacki (Dewey) Delich; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Edward; and his sister-in-law, Irene Hantula.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday, Nov. 6, from 11 until 11:45 a.m., at Manny's Restaurant, 316 E. Houk St., in Ironwood.

Full military rites will take place at the restaurant at noon accorded by the Ironwood American Legion Post 5 Honor Guard.

Following the military honors, a delicious Italian luncheon will be served.

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