Obituary: William J. Locher III

As received from Memorial Chapel Funeral and Cremation Service:

     William J. Locher III, 84, a resident of L’Anse, passed away Monday, November 6, 2023, at Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital following a brief illness.

     He was born on October 6, 1939, in Ishpeming, MI, a son of the late William J. and Alma (Kauppila) Locher II.  William was raised in Ishpeming and was a graduate of the Ishpeming High School with the class of 1957.  He then graduated from Michigan Technological University with a degree in Metallurgical Engineering.

     Mr. Locher then began a career in the mining industry working for various mines in Michigan and Minnesota.  William then became a Metallurgical Engineering consultant working all over the world for Davey McKee Consulting.  Later Mr. Locher returned to make his home in the Upper Peninsula. Since that time he was also able to help with Cow Testing and was the last manager of the Pelkie Co-op.  He enjoyed rock collecting, woodworking and hunting for antiques.  Bill enjoyed keeping in touch with his hometown of Ishpeming and was active with the Champion Historical Society.

      Preceding him in death were his son William Locher IV, his parents, his brothers; Ross and Kirk; along with his former wife Carolyn Ann Erdman.

     Surviving are: 

            His daughter: 

                        Diana (Joel) VanLanen of Iron River 

            His grandsons: Joel (Sara) VanLanen of Appleton, WI 

                                    Boaz (Ashley) VanLanen of Shawano, WI  

                                    Abram VanLanen a freshman attending Michigan Technological University

            His sister: Geri (Frank) Salat of Frisco, TX

            Several nieces, nephews and cousins

            A special friend: Connie Sherry of Baltic

     A time to share memories for William will be held 2:00 pm Sunday, November 12, 2023, at the Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Mt. View Chapel of South Range.  Friends may call on Sunday from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm.  Burial will be in the Elo Cemetery.

     To view William’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.

     The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Mt. View Chapel of South Range is assisting the family with the arrangements.