John D. “Jack” Lahnanen

Jack was born in Ishpeming on March 17, 1937 a son of the late Luella (Johns) and Donald Lahnanen. He worked as a Plant Repairman at the Tilden Mine for the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co. for 30+ years, retiring in 1992.

Jack enjoyed deer season in the U.P., going to camp Pirun Pesa with his Dad and his boys, which he and his West Ishpeming buddies built out of an old Chicken Coop in the late 1940’s. Loved to go to Richie Giotto’s Deer Camp with Kenny Maki and others. He will be remembered as a good softball player, both fast and slow-pitch. He loved a good Finnish Sauna at his son Rick’s camp along with going for rides in the bush. Always a mainstay was the Friday Fish Fry at Sherry’s, trips to the Casino and his support of the Detroit Lions and Tiger’s. He truly loved his wife Helen and missed her dearly.

Survivors include three sons: Rick Lahnanen of Helen Lake; Donald Lahnanen of Ishpeming; Robert (Andrea) Lahnanen of Skanee, MI; two step daughters: Lois Champion of Appleton, WI; Rosemarie (Steve) Larson of Ishpeming; step sons: David (Valarie) Kipling; Dean Kipling both of Ishpeming; Kevin (Daniele) Kipling of Negaunee; sister, Carolyn (Allen) Sivula of Gwinn. 9 grandchildren -Katie, Jackqui (Sean), Amber & Dylan Lahnanen, Brenda Steve, Jacob and Caleb Larson, Cora Bleau and Toni Marie (Luke) Tikkanen, great grandchildren – Megan Steve, Ryan Oslund and Vivian Tikkanen, great great grandchildren Mason and Atticus.

Jack was preceded in death by his wife Helen (Cardew) Lahnanen in 2015, Son James Lahnanen, brother James Lahnanen.

Per Jack’s wishes cremation will take place with no public services.

Jack’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.