George A. “Turkey” Kaiponen

ATLANTIC MINE — George A. “Turkey” Kaiponen, 88, of Atlantic Mine, died on Monday, April 28, 2008, at his home.

He was born in Atlantic Mine on March 3, 1920, a son of the late Henry and Margaret (Moilanen) Kaiponen and was a 1936 graduate of the Painesdale High School.

George worked in the CC Camps and for most of his life was a logger.

He was employed for a time by Eddie Wuorinen.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during WW II, receiving the purple Heart and the Bronze Star.

As a youth, George enjoyed playing baseball and was known for his talent as a pitcher. He was an avid horseshoe player, winning many trophies.

Surviving are two sisters, Irene Schutz, a patient at Cypress Manor, Hancock and Emma Fraki, a patient of Maple Manor Nursing Home in Ontonagon; a niece, Debi Beyers; a nephew, John Schutz; as well as several other nieces and nephews.

George was also preceded in death by a sister, Helen Coaley; and brothers, Carl, Arthur, Waino, Eino, Urho and Hubert.

Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2008, at the Atlantic Mine Cemetery with Terry Klemett to officiate. Military rites will be conducted by the Copper Country Veterans.

Arrangements are being handled by the Mountain View Mortuary of South Range, Antila Funeral Service, Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at antilafuneral.com.