Gladys McKiddie

Gladys Ann McKiddie, 79, of Brimley, Michigan passed away Thursday, May 13, 2021, at UP Health Systems – Marquette.Gladys was born on September 14, 1941, in Brimley, MI to the late Reuben and Alma (Nivala) Ojala. She graduated as valedictorian of the Class of 1959 from Brimley High School.  On June 17, 1961, she married James R. McKiddie at the Pilgrim Holiness Church in Sault Ste. Marie.  Gladys served many years on the board of Women Today and Christian Women’s Club.  She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Brimley where she served as pianist for the last 12 years.  She was a gifted pianist who was asked to play for weddings, funerals and various events for many years.  She was a fantastic baker and her pasties were legendary. Gladys loved her family, and her grandchildren were her pride and joy.   

Gladys is survived by her husband: Jim McKiddie; a daughter: Roxie (Jim) Halvorsen of Brimley: two granddaughters: Lauren and Autumn; and three siblings: Margaret Mathews of Sault Ste. Marie, Mildred Upchurch of Leesburg, Florida, and Stanley Ojala of Portage.   Gladys was preceded in death by her parents and five siblings: Reuben Ojala, Jr., Cecil Ojala, Gloria Cottle, Eleanor Ojala, and Clarence Ojala.  A time of gathering will be held from 4:00 until 8:00 PM on Thursday, May 20, 2021, at the First Congregational Church in Brimley.  A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, May 21, at the church with calling hours from 1:00 until time of the service, with Pastor Rod Case officiating.