Lois M. Symons, 94, a lifelong resident of Bessemer, peacefully entered eternal life on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, with family by her side.

Lois was born on October 23, 1931, at home in Puritan location, to the late Henry and Pearl (Gamache) Ellis. She graduated from Bessemer High School in 1949 and began employment at Hanson’s Glove Factory. On May 24, 1952, Lois married the love of her life, Robert Symons, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Ironwood.

A devout Catholic, Lois was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Ramsay, St. Sebastian Church in Bessemer, and Our Lady of Peace in Ironwood.

Lois was a strong, resilient woman who loved to laugh, bringing joy, inspiration, and wisdom to everyone around her. If anyone was ever troubled, she would offer her trademark advice: "If you're ever bothered about something, just wait three days."

Lois loved the outdoors, whether she was going on walks and adventures with her grandchildren, tending to the garden, chopping wood for the family, or simply mowing their large yard on Prospect Drive. She was also a very enthusiastic fan of the Green Bay Packers.

Above all, Lois had profound pride in her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She took immense joy in hosting celebrations and large meals, viewing every gathering as an opportunity to create lifelong memories and bring family together.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Robert, she was preceded in death by her daughters, Karen Niemi and Nancy Blodgett; three sisters, Elaine, Beverly, and Grace; and two brothers, James and Wilfred.

Lois is survived by two sons, Robert (Wendy) Symons Jr. of Bessemer, and John (Yvonne) Symons of Richfield, MN; her grandchildren, Kayla, Kyle, and Joseph Blodgett, Lonnie (Angie) and Douglas Niemi, Dana (Kevin) Rodriguez, and Ian, Nicole, and Courtney Symons; many great-grandchildren; her brother, Jack Ellis of Minocqua, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Gogebic Medical Care Facility for their exceptional, loving care and compassion shown to both Lois and her family. 

In accordance with Lois’ wishes, no formal funeral services will be held. A private celebration of life will take place at a later date.