Robert Laitala

Bob was born November 26, 1938 in Ishpeming to William J. and Martha S. (Heiskanen) Laitala and graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1956. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1962, being honorably discharged in 1964 before working for a short time in the auto industry in Milwaukee.

Bob returned to Negaunee and began his career with Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company at the Mather ‘B’ Mine, eventually retiring in 1995 from the Empire Mine.

Mr. Laitala was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Negaunee. He was an avid sports fan, cheering for the Milwaukee Bucks and Brewers, Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers and of course the Negaunee Miners. He enjoyed spending time at hunting camp on the Escanaba River and socializing downtown Negaunee during happy hour.

Surviving are his son, William ‘Bud’ (Michelle) Laitala of Negaunee Township; step-son, David (Sheri) Lasater of North Carolina; and four grandchildren: Liam and Kenley Laitala, and Laura and Samantha Lasater.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 10:00 am until 12 noon on Thursday, April 11th at Koskey Funeral Home. A luncheon will follow at the Negaunee Elks. Burial will be in the Negaunee Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in Bob’s memory to Negaunee Little League, PO Box 164, Negaunee, MI 49866.

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