Richard ‘Rich’ Bjorne

Rich was born at St. Luke’s Hospital in Marquette on January 4, 1954, to the late Leslie and Mary (Guy) Bjorne.

He was a lifelong resident of Ishpeming, Michigan, graduated from Ishpeming High School with the class of 1972, and attended Northern Michigan University. Rich began working for Cleveland Cliffs in December of 1973 at the Tilden Mine and retired from the Empire Mine in July of 2011 after 38 1/2 years. During the course of his employment, he worked in both operating and maintenance. He was a member of the United Steelworkers, and during his tenure at the Empire Mine, he held numerous positions within the local union.

He was the Exalted Ruler of the Ishpeming Elks Lodge #447 for the lodge year of 1980-1981.

Rich loved cooking, both looking up new recipes online and sharing his mother’s tried and true favorites. He never met a stranger; he could carry on a conversation with anyone. He was a loyal man, a lifelong Detroit Lions fan who watched all their games, even though they had losing seasons during most of his lifetime.

Rich is survived by his son, Bryan Bjorne; his daughter, Jackelyn Bjorne; his siblings, Beverly (Bruce) Mantyla, Nancy (John) Cardoni, and Steven Bjorne; and his uncle, Bernhardt Bjorne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Mary (Guy) Bjorne; his siblings, Joanne Johnson and Elizabeth Bjorne; and his brother-in-law, David Johnson. Rich is also survived by various cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Honoring Rich’s wishes, a graveside memorial service will be held at a later date. Details will be forthcoming.

Rich’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to share notes of remembrance.