Peter Kuzma Sr.

Peter was born in Elizabeth, PA on June 18, 1929, a son of the late John and Teresa (Czicak) Kuzma. Peter served his country in the U.S. Army during the Koran Conflict.

After being honorably discharged Peter began a career as an Iron Worker, he started in 1954 as a Journeyman. He worked out of local 8 in Milwaukee, he retired in 1987. He was a member of the Iron Workers Union for 70 years and was the oldest living iron worker in the Upper Peninsula.

Peter was meticulous about keeping up with his yard, and was an accomplished storyteller, just like his father. He hoped he would live to 104 the age his father passed away. Besides his wife Rachael his second love of his life was his 1972 Coupe DeVille Cadilac, he treated that car just like a child.

Peter is survived by a son Peter (Phyllis) Kuzma Jr. of Piqua, OH, daughters; Shelly (Aaron) Wixtrom of Republic and Teresa (Steve) Buchina of Elizabeth, PA, adopted son Todd (Patti) Rankinen of Republic, his grandchildren whom referred to him as “pap”, Tyler (Kara) McCarty, Audrey (Dustin) McCarty, his great grandchildren would referred to his as “pap pap Pete”, Kylee West, Lilian McCarty, Lainey McCarty and Elsie McCarty, special niece Lori (Scott) Gauthier, special nephew Ray (Brenda) Mattson, along with other nieces and nephews, special friends from Indiana Bob and Debbie Rajsic who were always kind and friendly to Peter.

Peter was preceded in death by his parents, wife Rachael, his brothers; John, and Charlie Kuzma, and his sisters; Mary Zaken, Annie Kenovich, and Helen Piggford.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the Republic Township Cemetery with Pastor Jim Janofski officiating and the UP-Funeral Honors Team providing military honors.

Peter’s family would like to thank the staff at Eastwood Nursing Center, Dr. Wayne B. Carlson for the wonderful care given to Peter and a thank you to the Iron Workers would visit with Peter.

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