Obituary: Roger Gene Laitila

As received from the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel:

Roger Gene Laitila,” Pumpkin Head”, 68 of Askel, MI died peacefully at home with family by his side following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Hancock, MI on February 16, 1955 the son of the late Edward and Mayme (Heikkinen) Laitila. Roger graduated from Baraga High School in 1973. He lived the majority of his life on Askel Hill, where he built a beautiful log cabin. Roger had worked for various construction companies and was a proud member of the Laborer’s Union Local #1329. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed gardening and canning. On nice summer days, you could find Roger riding his Harley. He loved his saunas and cold beer and enjoyed the company of his grandchildren and many friends from all walks of life.

Roger is survived by his loving step children Jenna Heikkinen (Dylan Tollefson), of Baraga, Andrea (Ben) Johnson of Pelkie, and Darren (Angelica) Heikkinen of Baraga, several grandchildren, sisters Shirley Schuman of Brighten, MI and Lori (Jim) Stingle of Tapiola, brothers Dave Laitila (Diana Pirkola) of L’Anse, and Edsel Laitila of Elo, sisters-in-law Joan Laitila, Peggy Laitila, and Susie Laitila all of Keweenaw Bay, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and his little dog “Toivo”. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Bob Laitila, Howard Laitila, Donnie Laitila, and Wesley Laitila, and sister Joyce Laitila. He was also preceded in death by the love of his life Diane Osterman, and his beloved German Shepard, “Jack”.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be held and a potluck served from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, May 5, 2023 at the Baraga American Legion Post #444.

Interment will take place in the summer in the Karki Cemetery on Askel Hill.

A special thank you to Braden Archambeau, Randy and Andrea Malone, Jeff Karvonen, and Oscar Heikkinen for being the best friends a man could ask for.

Also, thank you to the entire community for being of support during this trying time.

Roger will be remembered for his positive attitude throughout his illness. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”, will forever be remembered by his family as being his motto in the final days.

Roger’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.reidfuneralservicechapel.com

The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with the arrangements.