Jack Kaikkonen
PALMER, MI-John Louis ‘Jack’ Kaikkonen, 76, of Palmer, passed away peacefully following a brief illness Monday morning, June 9, 2025 at UP Health System in Marquette.
Jack was born December 17, 1948 in Ishpeming to John and Eileen (Kercher) Kaikkonen and graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1967. He then began his career with Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company prior to being drafted into the United States Army. Following his honorable service during the Vietnam War, Jack continued his career with CCI, retiring from the Empire Mine in 1997 with 30 years of service.
Jack was a lifetime member of VA Romo Post #3165, Negaunee VFW; was a member of the Little Lake American Legion, volunteered for 18 years with the Richmond Township Fire Department and belonged to the Richmond Township Community Club. He loved the outdoors; fishing, hunting, picking morels, and more than anything sharing memories with his beloved grandchildren. He was also an avid gardener and professional practical jokester.
Surviving are his wife of 40 years, Cheryl (Clifford) Kaikkonen; daughters: Tammy Kaikkonen of Palmer and Kelly (David) Basten of Plymouth, Minnesota; son, Jesse Kaikkonen of Palmer; five grandchildren: Benjamin, Adam and Julia Basten, and Brenna and Beau Kaikkonen; his sister, Kathleen Kaikkonen and her son, Abraham, of Ann Arbor.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Honoring Jack’s wishes, a private family celebration will be held. His memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.