Bruce Joel Kemppainen
November 1, 1946 — January 11, 2009
Bruce Joel Kemppainen, age 62 of L'Anse, Michigan died suddenly on Sunday, January 11, 2009 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
He was born November 1, 1946 in L'Anse, MI. Bruce was the son of the late Earl and Ruth (Maki) Kemppainen. Bruce graduated from L'Anse High School in 1964 and Suomi College in 1966. He went into the United States Navy from 1967-72. Returning to L'Anse he worked at Pettibone for 18 years. Bruce married the love of his life, Linda Shalifoe, on November 30, 1990 in L'Anse. He worked as a rehabilitation counselor for New Day from 1991-2007; when he retired.
Bruce enjoyed his 4 dogs, being outdoors, and was an avid NASCAR and Packer fan.
Surviving are his wife Linda of L'Anse; step son Dale (Tracie) Shalifoe of Big Bay, MI; step daughters Carena (Michael) Weih of Wheatland, IA, Hyedi (Richard) Johnson of Atlantic Mine, MI, adopted daughter Karrie Jo Kemppainen of Atlantic Mine; brothers James (Arlene) Kemppainen of L'Anse, David Kemppainen of Aura; 8 grandchildren Shane, Ciara, Zachary, Jacob, Andrew, Mya, Anna, and Kate.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 17th at 11:00 a.m. with the Baraga County Area Veterans conducting Military Rites followed by a service with Pastor Judy Mattson officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be in the spring in the Pelkie Cemetery. The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.
Friends may sign Bruce's guest book and send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.