James Parkkonen

Jim was born September 6, 1965 to Robert L. and Sallyann J. (Kaeseman) Parkkonen and graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1983.

An avid outdoorsman, Jim loved to fish, trap and hunt in the beautiful Goose Lake Hills. He loved his canine companion, Bandit.

Jim retired from Cleveland Cliffs after a long career. After retirement, he enjoyed organic gardening, planting beautiful fruit trees, gardens and hardwoods. He made wonderful pickles, jams, jellies, pies and the family favorite, ‘tickled’ beets.

Jim was fiercely proud of his children, James and Kelsey. His grandchildren were the light of his life.

Surviving are his mother, Sallyann Kivisto (whom he spent quality time with every day), his son and daughter-in-law, James Parkkonen MD and Suzy Zurecka MD; his daughter and son-in-law, Kelsey and Daniel Simpson; grandchildren: Everett Owen Simpson, Emilia Blake Simpson and baby Simpson arriving next summer. He will be missed by his siblings: Gary (Karen) Parkkonen, Susan Bystrom, Byron (Barbara) Parkkonen, Linda (Barry) Hosking; several nieces, nephews and extended family; and his dear friend, Tracy Ewald.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert; nephews: Wayne L. Lowery and Robert J. Parkkonen; niece, Krystal L. Bystrom; and his step-father, Roy Kivisto.

Jim’s family extends a sincere thank you to UP Home Health and Hospice (especially Paula and Marie) who enabled us to grant Jim’s wish to be at home when he passed.

Honoring Jim’s wishes, a private gathering to remember his life will be held.

His memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.