Andrea Somes Kokko, age 38, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, died at her home on January 30, 2024. She was born on December 12, 1985, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, to Ralph and Jennifer Ann (Somes) Kokko.
Andrea grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and graduated from Sault Area High School in 2004. After gaining her life experiences traveling around Michigan, she returned to Sault Ste. Marie where she became a cornerstone of the recovery community. Andrea began her career as a recovery coach at Great Lakes Recovery Center. She also provided the Eastern Upper Peninsula with harm reduction resources through the syringe exchange program. Continuing her calling in recovery, Andrea then worked at Anne's House. In July 2023, Andrea accepted a position at the State of Michigan Department of Corrections as a Chippewa County Probation/Parole Recovery Coach. Andrea also advocated for those in need at the Diane Peppler Resource Center, Project Assert, Families Against Narcotics, and as a certified educator for the Recovery Coach Academy.
When she wasn't advocating for others, Andrea enjoyed naps, loving her cats, graphic design, spending time with her partner and his children, and collecting eclectic oddities at thrift stores. She also enjoyed writing in her journal and reading. Andrea was a very creative person and loved to sew, especially purses and skirts.
Poo-poo, pee-pee. If you know, you know.
Andrea is survived by her father, Ralph; brother, Ryan Kokko; grandmother, Jennie Somes; the love of her life and best friend, David DeSart; and best friends, Jessica Roeglin, Kerry Gravelle, and Nichole Brown.
Andrea was preceded in death by her mother, Jennifer; brother, Tyler Kokko; and grandfather, Wayne Somes.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM, at the Family Life Funeral Homes, 4591 S. M-129, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Great Lakes Recovery Center, 2655 Ashmun St. Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.
Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com
