Robert M. Lakanen's Obituary
Robert M. Lakanen, age 97, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 4, 2022. He was born on August 18, 1925, to Akseli and Ida (Kurtti) Lakanen in Iron Mountain, MI. He received his education in the Champion school system, followed by obtaining his associate degree at Muskegon Community College. After graduation, he continued his education at Western Michigan University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology. In 1948, Robert married the love of his live, Bernice in LaGrange, Indiana. Together they cherished 57 years of marriage. He had a true love and passion for being outdoors, whether it was spending time fly fishing, capturing natures beauty in photos, or going for long walks in the woods with his family. Robert also took to golfing in his later years to spend a little more time with his son, John out on the greens. He was a very talented man who enjoyed taking on projects that would test his skill set: refurbishing broken antique furniture, repairing car engines, or digging out a well. He was a proud Finnish man whose heritage radiated through his strong-willed mentality and love for all things nature. He also was a faithful Christian and is enjoying being in Heaven with his Lord and Savior. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandpa and great-grandpa; and friend to many. He is survived by his two children, John, Ph. D. (Heidi) Lakanen and Christine, M.D. (Robert) Barrett; eight grandchildren, David, Stephen, Natalie, Claire, Jennifer, Laura, Kelly and Amy; eight great-grandchildren; and son-in-law, Henry Klukos, Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents, Akseli and Ida Lakanen; wife, Bernice Lakanen; daughter, Roberta Klukos; four brothers, Roy, William, Clifford and Paul; and three sisters, Ruth, Dorothy and Catherine. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Henry Klukos, Jr. for his ability in allowing Robert to keep his independence while in Muskegon, David Lakanen for his dedicated care for the last three years in Upland, Indiana and Jill Parkison, his nurse and friend that provided excellent and compassionate care this last year. A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00PM on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Norton Cemetery, 743-761 Airport Rd., Norton Shores, MI 49441. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial Contributions in Robert’s honor can be directed to the Muskegon Humane Society & Animal Rescue. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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