Arnold “Manny” Antila, 92, Ontonagon

Arnold “Manny” Anttila 92, of Ontonagon, passed away March 29, 2026 at his home in Ontonagon.

Arnold was born on March 13, 1934, to Tyyne (Aho) and Frank Anttila in Mass City. He married Marilyn Sparpanic in Highland Park, Michigan in 1956 and they enjoyed 63 years together.

Arnold entered the Army in the 1950’s and was a proud veteran. He worked at the White Pine Mine and in the tool & die business for many years and volunteered for many years at Good Shepard Catholic Church in Montrose, Michigan and Holy Family Catholic Church in Ontonagon. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and was very involved. For many years Arnold and Marilyn traveled to Mackinaw Island as he was part of the Knights of Columbus convention.

Arnold grew up playing baseball and basketball with his brothers in Mass City and was proud of his family’s accomplishments. He coached youth baseball in Montrose for many years and was a positive influence on many youth in the area. Arnold was an avid golfer throughout his life and was proud of getting his first hole in one in his 70’s. He was a lifelong fan of professional sports following the Brewers, Tigers, Bucks, Pistons and Packers.

He is survived by his brother, Ronald “Rusty (Geri) Anttila; nephews and nieces, Randy (Mary Jane) Anttila, Kim (Bob) Coffey, Craig (Denise) Destrampe, Shannon (Mary) Destrampe, David Sparpanic, Darlene (Bob) Culbertson, Carol Sparpanic, Mary Jane Anttila (William Sorenson), James Anttila (Michele), Julie Anttila (Mark Prairie), Michelle Shafron (Chris Malenzi), and Angela Pattison (Michael); and other relatives.

Arnold was predeceased by his wife Marilyn of 63 years; brothers, Douglas Anttila; James Antilla, sisters, Estelle Merigian and Jean Schires.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at a later date to be announced, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Ontonagon.