Anna was born on October 16, 1927, in Aura, Michigan, one of ten children to John and Ida (Polasari) Heltunen.

On July 2, 1949, in her beloved hometown of Aura, she married Ralph Nelson Severance, who preceded her in death in 2008.

Proud to be a Yooper, Anna wore her Upper Peninsula roots like a badge of honor. She fondly shared stories of her childhood, from walking to school in blizzards to skating on frozen rinks. She and her siblings cherished their “Sauna Saturdays,” when the family took turns cleaning up in the wood-fired sauna, followed by warm coffee and cinnamon rolls. Her family even donated the land for the Aura County Cemetery—a legacy of deep community ties.

Anna was a wonderful homemaker and a gifted cook, best known for her delicious pasties and apple pies. She split her time between her cherished home in Aura and her peaceful house on Stoney Point in Suttons Bay. With a warm smile, a kind heart, and a gentle spirit, Anna radiated love and was adored by all who knew her. She was devoted to her family and found true joy in spending time with her siblings, children, and especially in spoiling her grandchildren.

Died June 22, 2025

Anna is survived by her three children, Cheryl Severance, Cindy (Tom) Lawson, John (Wendy) Severance; a sister, Phyllis Rogers; two grandchildren, Josh Lawson, Joey (Anna) Severance; two great grandchildren, Judd (Frances) Lawson, Lydia Lawson and many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Ralph, her parents John and Ida; a son, Steve Severance; her four brothers, John, Herman, Paul, Edwin, Arnold and Ralph Heltunen, and her three sisters, Verna Drummond, Sylvia Golka and Adell Heltunen at the age of 2 years.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff of French Manor South for the loving and exceptional care Anna received during her time there. Their kindness and compassion meant the world to her and to those who loved her.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 27th with the family greeting friends at 10:30 a.m. at the First Lutheran Church of Suttons Bay. Pastor Colin Anderson will officiate.

Memorials in Anna’s honor may be directed to First Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 189, Suttons Bay, MI 49682.

Please share condolences with the family at www.martinson.info.

Arrangements are with Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.