John Michael Sievert, 61, a longtime resident of Wakefield, died unexpectedly Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011, in Ironwood.

John was born on Jan. 30, 1950, in Chicago, the son of John Paul and Lillian Isabelle (Ahlquist) Sievert. He graduated from Wakefield High School in 1969. John also attended Gogebic Community College.

He was employed as a lift operator at Indianhead Mountain Resort.

John was a director of the Wakefield Historical Society, where he actively engaged in building and ground maintenance. He manned the museum on summer Saturdays.

John faithfully attended All Saints Lutheran Church, where he was an active member of Lutheran Men in Mission, the Financial Committee and the Wednesday evening Bible study at Sunset Manor.

John was the true quiet man whose shoes will be hard to fill. Whenever something needed to be done he would quietly accomplish the task never asking for thanks. His thanks was being able to help others.

John is survived by a brother, Dr. Robert (Marti), Pewaukee, Wis.; a sister, Patricia (Steve) Lawson, Campton, N.H.; six nieces and nephews, Bethany, Daniel, Patrick and Laura Sievert and Timothy and Merissa Lawson; and several cousins, including special cousin, Carol (John) Lopez.

He was preceded in death by his father, John, on Sept. 9, 1969; and his mother, Lillian, on Dec. 10, 1996.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Monday, Dec. 12, from 10 to 11 a.m., at All Saints Lutheran Church in Wakefield, where a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Bill Jacobson officiating.

A luncheon will be held in the church fellowship hall.

Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery.

Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy are kindly asked to consider the All Saints Lutheran Church, 1202 Putnam Blvd., Wakefield MI 49968, in John's memory.

Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., Wakefield, is assisting the family. Your condolences may be shared with the family at: lakesidememorialchapel.com.