Robert J. Parkkonen

Rob was born December 17, 1975, in Ishpeming, to Gary and Vicki (Pearce) Parkkonen and graduated from Marquette Senior High School, Class of 1994. He continued his education at Northern Michigan University, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was employed as a design engineer for Automated Machine Systems, in Jenison, MI.

Rob was a kind and gentle person who loved his family and friends. He enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, skiing and other outdoor activities. He especially loved going to Skeeter Camp and catching rainbows on Little Shag with his family. He enjoyed family trips, mom’s lasagna dinners, boating with his sister, and spoiling his little niece, Anna, who he nicknamed, ‘Neeners.’

Rob’s biggest passion was music. He was an excellent drummer, a natural from the start. He took to his drums and found his beat, a beat so strong it would carry him to wherever he would go. Rob became proficient in many styles of music including Jazz, Latin, Reggae, Funk, Metal and even good ol’ Rock and Roll. He played in various bands in the UP, many times traveling to gigs with his dad and many great musicians. Rob later played in several bands in the West Michigan music scene after moving to Holland. He will be sorely missed by all of his musician friends and fans.

Surviving are his father, Gary (Karen) Parkkonen of Marquette; his mother, Vicki Parkkonen of Marquette; paternal grandmother, Sally Kivisto; his sister, Lindsey (Jason) Bernard of Marquette; step-brother, Michael Stone of Maryland; his niece, Anna Rae Bernard; two nephews, Isaac Bernard and Austyn (Sarah) Bernard and their son, Jonas; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Robert Parkkonen; maternal grandparents, Robert (Edith) Pearce and cousins, Wayne Lowrey, Krystal Bystrom and Trista Peters.

In accordance with COVID-19 precautions, private family services will be held. As an expression of sympathy, the family wishes that everyone please take a moment to get your COVID-19 vaccination as soon as it is available to you. Protect yourself and your loved ones.

Perhaps Rob’s niece, Anna, said it best: “It will never be the same.” Rob, we love you and miss you so much, you will remain in our hearts forever. May we all find peace in God’s creation ’til we meet again.

Rob’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.