Arthur Koski

Art was born in Negaunee on February 10, 1932, the second child and first-born son to Harvey ‘Hirvi’ and Viana (Tuuri) Koski. He was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Negaunee.

Art attended Negaunee Public Schools, graduating from NHS in 1950. He then earned his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1955 from Michigan Tech University. During his summers, weekends, and Easter and Christmas vacations, Arthur worked for Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company as an underground miner to help put himself through school. In August of 1955, Arthur was interviewed and then given an offer from North American Aviation Corporation of Los Angeles, California. This was later renamed North American Rockwell and then Rockwell International. Upon graduation from Michigan Tech, Art accepted the job with Rockwell International and moved to Los Angeles, California where he worked as a Contract Specifications Engineer on many of our country’s leading military aviation projects, including the B-1 Bomber. He continued to support Michigan Tech after his graduation, and in 2001, MTU recognized Art for his loyalty and support of the University by dedicating Conference Room 209A in the Mechanical Engineering building in his name. After retiring in 1993, Art moved to Santa Barbara, California.

In recognition of his 38-year contribution to the country’s aircraft industry, Art’s biography is posted on the Wall of Honor at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport. He continued to remain in touch with developments in the aviation field until his passing. Although Art lived for many years in California, his heart remained in the beloved Upper Peninsula. Until his failing health prevented him from flying, he traveled to Negaunee for class reunions and to hunt with his buddies each deer season. Art was easy to talk to, a gentle soul like his father, and was always ready to provide caring support for his younger siblings and their families.

Art is survived by a sister-in-law, Geraldine ‘Geri’ Koski of California; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and best friends, Robert and Carol Carlson of Negaunee. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Lowell Koski; two sisters: Delight Deane and Faith Mary Binns; an infant sister, Helen; his aunt, Joyce Tuuri; and a close friend and cribbage playing buddy, Richard Carlson.

Private burial services will take place in the family plot in the Negaunee Cemetery.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may consider the Mechanical Engineering Department of Michigan Tech University, 1400 Townsend Dr., Houghton, MI 49931 or a charity of your choice.

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