Ida was born August 12, 1910, in Kaleva, the daughter of Samuel and Wilhelmiina (Untinen) Kaikkonen.

She was awarded a lifetime teaching certificate in 1929 and a bachelorÕs degree from Central Michigan University in 1960. She taught for many years in Copemish, Marion, and Bellaire Public Schools, and was a member of the Retired Teachers Association.

She was member of the Bellaire Community United Methodist Church and an associate member of the Kalamazoo United Methodist Church. She enjoyed oil painting, gardening, reading, swimming, bowling, shell and rock collecting.

On July 3, 1935, in Kaleva she married Hoy M. Dewey who preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death were three brothers, Arthur, John "Dave," and Gustave "Sander,Ó"and two sisters, Ann Voightman and Hannah "BillieÓ"Albrect.

Surviving are two children, Douglas H. (Kristi) of Bellaire, Dorothy L. Mercer of Richmond, Ky., five grandchildren, Jeff (Margaret) Dewey, Jessi Dewey, Christopher Dewey, Todd (Twilla) Mercer, Andy Mercer, four great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were Monday, March 5, 2007, at the Bellaire Community United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Mary Brown officiating. Interment will be in Lakeview Cemetery, Bellaire with a burial service to follow in late May.

The family received friends Sunday, March 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bellaire Community United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 235, Bellaire, Mich., 49615.