Leo Laitinen

Resided in Rock, MI
Died March 25, 2011

Leo Laitinen, age 92, of 1924 West Maple Ridge 37th Road, Rock, passed away Friday afternoon March 25, 2011 at the D.J.Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette where he currently was residing.
Leo was born on September 9, 1918 on the family farm in Rock the son of John and Aliina (Nuuttila) Laitinen. He was raised on the family farm and was a 1935 graduate of the Rock High School. Following graduation, Leo continued to work on the family farm until he served his country in the U.S. Army from 1942-1945. During his tour of duty he was stationed in China, India and Burma, as a radio operator. He received many decorations and citations during this time.

Upon his return to the States, Leo worked on the family farm. Shortly after, he became a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Union Local #687.
As a carpenter he worked on many local construction jobs, including KI Sawyer AFB, Northern Michigan University, Marquette General Hospital, as well, as the Empire and Tilden mines. Leo was a 45 year member of the carpenters union, receiving his 45 year pin the day he passed away.
Leo was united in marriage to the former Doris Stenerson in March 1954, and they made their home in Rock where they raised their daughter Susan.

In addition to being a member of the Carpenters Union, Leo was a member of the Rock American Legion and Rock Senior Center. He also served as a Trustee for the Ewing Township Board for several years. Leo will be remembered by his family and friends as being very outgoing, social and active in the community of Rock. He was a friend to many.

Leo enjoyed his carpentry work, watching western movies and reading Louie L

0 Tributes for “Leo Laitinen

    Leo was a friend of my parents. I had the pleasure of visiting him at Jacobetti last summer and his sharp memory astounded me. I will miss him. I was looking forward to further conversations with him.I would like to offer the support of the Patriot Guard Riders at his final rites.

    Al Salmi
    Rapid River MI & Lake Worth, FL

    We’ll miss our friend and neighbor. Leo’s presence here in West Rock always brought sunshine into our lives, as he later brought sunshine to those around him at Jacobetti. The world is a better place for Leo’s having been here!
    We enjoyed trading Clive Cussler’s books with Leo, and will always think of Leo when we read them.

    Jim Ringelberg and Barb Brown
    Rock, MI

    I met Leo 15 years ago when my wife Susan and I moved to Rock. He was one of the first to welcome us to the neighborhood. From then on we became good friends and shared many fun times and “projects” together. He was my walking “History Book” of the area. Leo introduced me to Trenary Toast and coffee and had many a “B.S. session” concerning local and world events…AND POLITICS…. He was always so good natured, fun and full of life…and there when you needed him. During my visits to see him at Jacobetti, he always displayed his great FINNISH humor. Upon his passing, one of the Homes’ Volunteers called to say “Thank you for sharing him with us”…as I had expressed how much we missed him in our neighborhood. He was a teacher, a friend, and a very caring soul. If any one earned a “direct route to Heaven…he did.” Thank you , Leo, for sharing with all of us.

    Dave Hall
    Rock, MI

    Leo will be greatly missed by all who new him at Jacobetti’s from all the staff to all the members. Leo always brought joy to everyone and will hold a special place in my heart. Susan your Dad spoke highly of you and loved you very much. My condolences to you and your family. Sincerly Jackie

    Jackie Baumler
    Negaunee, MI

    It was a great pleasure to have the honor of being one of Leo’s caregivers. He was a truely wonderful man with a great spirit. Always very friendly with a great sense of humor!! Leo will be truely missed at Jacobetti! His family is in my thoughts and prayers!

    Lisa Harnick
    Gwinn, MI

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