Jean M. Mack

Jean M. Mack, age 72, of Iron River, MI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the Iron County Medical Care Facility in Crystal Falls, MI.

She was born in Stambaugh, MI on December 22, 1953, to Audrey Uren Ridolphi and Aldo Ridolphi. She attended the local schools and graduated with the WIC Class of 1972. Jean also went on to graduate from the Dickinson Iron Intermediate School District and Gogebic Community College. She loved her Class of ‘72 gatherings and helped as part of the planning committee. She also kept the Class Scrapbook.

As a young girl, she joined the Iron Lake 4-H Club where she became interested in poetry, photography, and arts and crafts. Later in life, she became a licensed vendor and sold her art. She was a member of the Iron County Artist’s Association for many years. Jean published three books, sold her photography, created many calendars, and was named the U.P. Writer of the Year in 2007.

Over the years, Jean worked in various businesses such as Coleman Products, the Dickinson Iron District Health Department, and Krist Oil Company. She loved meeting a challenge. She developed life-long friends at each place she worked.

Jean became involved in 12-Step Recovery groups in 1980. She loved AA and made many dear friends across the U.P. and northern Wisconsin due to her participation and service in these groups. She died sober and free.

She was a Christian and a member of Redemption Hill Church in Kingsford, MI. She was also a friend to Calvary Chapel in Iron River. She loved the old hymns and scripture lessons.

She was also a member of the Beechwood Historical Society and Beechwood Friendly Neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her father, Aldo, in 2003.

Jean had one son, Adam. She was always proud of him and ever grateful to call him son. She is survived by her son Adam (Kristina) Kolbas, her brother John (Candi) Ridolphi, her mother Audrey Uren Ridolphi and her niece Courtney (Travis) Bankert and their children. Many relatives, including some very close cousins, survive along with her dear friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at The Windsor Center in Iron River with Pastor Seth Waters to officiate. The Class of ’72 will host a time of sharing after the service.

Interment will be at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Beechwood at later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Iron County Cancer Society, PO Box 45, Iron River, MI 49935.