James Earl Kemppainen

He was born September 13, 1943 in L’Anse, MI son of Earl and Ruth (Maki) Kemppainen. Jim graduated from L’Anse High School in 1961. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1961 until 1966. He married Arlene Salo on July 6, 1968 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in L’Anse. Jim worked at Celotex for a few years.

He then worked 30 years for Cleveland Cliffs, retiring in 2003.

Jim was a life member of the VFW Post 3897. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, fishing, and going to camp with his boys.

Surviving are his wife Arlene Kemppainen of L’Anse; sons, Jim Kemppainen of L’Anse, Joel (Jody) Kemppainen of Green Bay, WI, Jason (Dawn) Kemppainen of L’Anse; grandchildren, Jillian, Brooke, Ryan and Khloe; brother David (Anne) Kemppainen of Aura; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents Earl and Ruth and brother Bruce Kemppainen.

Visitation will be on Friday, February 14th from 12-2:00 p.m. at Jacobson Funeral Home. Baraga County Area Veterans will conduct military rites at 2:00 p.m. followed by his funeral service with Fr. Corey Litzner officiating. A luncheon will follow at the American Legion in L’Anse. Burial will be in the spring in the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association-Greater Michigan Chapter, 309 S. Front St.#233, Marquette, MI 49855.

Friends may sign Jim’s guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com