Sherry A. (Smolich) Rissanen, age 57, of International Falls, passed away peacefully Saturday, Aug. 13, 2011, in her home.
She was born Nov. 25, 1953, to Joseph and Phyllis (Lovrien) Smolich.
Sherry was a 1972 graduate of Falls Senior High School and married Stephen Rissanen in November of 1972.
She was a devoted mother and grandmother and loved spending time with family and friends; being out at the shack and especially had a soft spot for all her outdoor “animal friends.”
Sherry was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Smolich.
She is survived by her husband, Steve of International Falls; daughter, Nikki (Andy) Gushulak of Pine Island, Minn.; son, Matt (Beth) Rissanen of Blackduck, Minn.; and her precious grandchildren, Abby and Tessa Gushulak, and Aiden, Elli and Lainey Rissanen. She also is survived by her mother, Phyllis (Norman) Rissanen; six sisters; and numerous nieces and nephews.
We would especially like to offer our appreciation and thanks to her close friends who provided help and support during her courageous battle with ALS.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers, may be directed to North Star Hospice or the ALS Society (alsmn.org).
A Celebration of Life Open House will be conducted from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 27, at Ranier Community Building.
Condolences may be left at www.greenlarsen.com.
Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary Inc., International Falls.
