Oliver J. Chantelois

Michigamme, MI – Oliver Joseph Chantelois, age 86, of Michigamme, passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at UP Health System – Marquette, while in the comforting care of his family.

Born on August 5, 1939, in Michigamme, the son of the late Trefle and Louise (Vadnais) Chantelois. He was a proud graduate of Michigamme High School in 1957, Oliver earned the title of salutatorian - a distinction he liked to point out, especially after revealing there were only two students in his graduating class.

Raised with a love of the outdoors, Oliver spent his youth trapping, hunting, fishing, and skiing with his father. He was also a standout basketball player in high school.

After high school Oliver worked on the iron ore boats on Lake Superior before being drafted into the U.S. Army in the post Korean era, serving two years and receiving an honorable discharge. He later took tool and die classes, which led to a long career at General Motors in Flint, Michigan. Oliver worked as a repairman for 30 years before retiring at age 55 and returning to Michigamme - "God's country," as he liked to tell everyone - to get back to his roots.

Oliver was known as a social butterfly with a big heart. He loved playing cards on Tuesdays, was an avid cribbage player who never missed a tournament, and could be counted on to take friends and family for a pontoon ride on Lake Michigamme. Friday Fish Fry nights were non-negotiable, and he belonged to several lunch and dinner groups that kept his calendar full.

He enjoyed his toys - his trike, four wheelers, and boats - and he loved downhill skiing well into his later years. Oliver liked to travel in his retirement years; among his favorite trips were visits to Switzerland, Peru, Australia, La Jolla California to see his daughter Lisa, Las Vegas to see his daughter Michelle, and memorable fishing trips to Alaska to see his son, Gary. He enjoyed the casino and bingo, more for the laughs and good times than the jackpots. Happily donating his money to the house over the years.

Oliver had a soft spot for his dogs, and in Oliver fashion, named each one Mandy. He was also described by many as a ladies' man. He loved the ladies… All the ladies… Oliver will be dearly missed by his wide circle of friends.

He is survived by his children, Lisa DeGuzman, Gary (daughter-in-law Claudia) Chantelois, Michelle (son-in-law Dean "Dino" Etheridge) Chantelois; grandkids, Anton, Christopher, Damon, Jonathan; and one great granddaughter, Scarlett; brothers, Trefle "Babe" and Marshall.

He was preceded in death by his parents Trefle and Louise Chantelois; his son, Tony Chantelois; and a son-in-law, Julio "Jay" DeGuzman.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. With Fr. Emmanuel as celebrant. A luncheon will follow Mass in the church hall. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Military honors will be accorded by the U.S. Army UP Honor Team.

Oliver's family would like to give special thanks to the staff at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans and for the care UP Health System – Marquette staff provided during Oliver's last days.

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