Obituary: Lawrence Julio

As received from the O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home:

Ripley: Lawrence Julio, a longtime area businessman of Ripley, passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at U.P Health System-Marquette Hospital.

     He was born on August 13, 1928 in Ripley to the late James and Annie (Harry) Julio. He attended both Ripley and Hancock Schools, later becoming a licensed builder, and was trained in hazmat, blasting, and demolition. He also obtained his Great Lakes Captain’s License. He was a self-made entrepreneur, owning Julio Contracting, Julio Marine and Salvage, Ripley Products (welding, fabricating, and engineering), UDP (data processing), Julio Snow Removal, and was first employed as a supervisor with Bechtel Engineering Company. His businesses provided bulldozing, complete building service, building removal, trenching, driveways, excavating, heavy equipment rental, boat lifting and storage, crane rental services, and tug and barge service to the area for 73 years.

     He was married to the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Linea on December 7, 1955. They have been married for over 63 years, following 8 years of courting prior to their marriage.

     He was a member of the Church of the Resurrection in Hancock, being a man of strong faith. He was also a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, honorary member of the Quincy Mine Hoist Association, Elks and Eagles Clubs, and was Franklin Township Supervisor and Trustee. He received a special honorary tribute from North Country Bank (South Range State Bank) for 30 years as primary board member, directing their tremendous growth. He attended Nitke Auctions for 50 years, and was a big game hunter, fisherman, and avid traveler.

     Lawrence will be remembered as the most giving, loving, caring and determined man, as he lived by his quote,” We can do anything, even the impossible, only sometimes it takes a little longer!” as the good Lord has shown through 71 years of eternal love with Betty Ann.

     Besides his parents, he was also preceded in death by 2 brothers, James and Joseph Julio, and by a granddaughter, Nichole Saunders.

     He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; 6 children: Ann Julio, Bonnie Julio -Teliin, Elizabeth Julio, Larry Julio, and Lori (Fred) Wuori; 20 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, September 23, 2019 at the Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Fr. William Ssozi to officiate. Burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery in Houghton.

     Friends may call at the O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home in Hancock on Sunday, September 22, 2019 from 5 until 7 P.M.  

        The O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements. To leave online condolences, please go to www.oneilldennisfh.com.

    Memorials in lieu of flowers may be directed to the Church of the Resurrection in his name.