BERGLAND, Mich. – Elsie Mae Hamel, 70, of Birch Street, Bergland, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, surrounded by her family.

Elsie was born at her family home in Bergland on Sept. 19, 1949. She was the daughter of the late Einard and Georgianna Perttu. Elsie attended the Bergland High School and graduated in 1967.

Elsie was a homemaker; she enjoyed cooking, baking and crocheting blankets for her family. Many will remember Elsie as the Avon Lady in Bergland for many years. Elsie also worked at the motel in Bergland and as a waitress and cook at Antonio's until May 2014.

Elsie married Clayton "Butch" Hamel on May 18, 1968, at the Trinity Lutheran Church. They were blessed with 51 years of marriage. They enjoyed dancing, attending sporting events, traveling and spending time with family and friends. Elsie loved to watch the big freighters go through the Soo Locks, spin the wheel at the casino and watch the Game Show Network. Elsie and Butch enjoyed their last trip in 2015, a cross-country journey by passenger train to Seattle. Elsie loved cheering on her favorite teams, the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Tigers.

Elsie was predeceased by her parents; and a brother, Herb Perttu.

Elsie is survived by her husband, Butch; sons, Todd (Amy) Hamel, Tom (Tera) Hamel and stepson, Bruce (Elvira) James; and grandchildren, Austin Dishneau, Kevin Dishneau, Easton Hamel, Logan Hamel, Alexa Vallejo, Sage James and Katya James. She is also survived by a sister, Bonita (Rudy) Johnson; a brother, Ray (Sue) Perttu; her sister-in-law, Jeanne Perttu; and numerous nieces and nephews.

By Elsie's request, no service will be held. The family asks that you take a moment to hug those close to you and tell them you love them. Time waits for no one. Goodbyes are not the end. It's simply until we meet again. Thanks to the Keeper of the Stars.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.