Keith was born in Ashland, Wisconsin, on April 24, 1955, a son of Raymond and Gloria (Dulong) Karvonen and attended the Adams Township schools.

Keith worked construction prior to working as a merchant marine on the ore boats, sailing the Great Lakes for 16 years with the Roger Blough, being the last freighter he sailed on, prior to retiring.

After retirement, he continued to work doing lawn care and snowplowing. He also drove for Copper Country Limo and Checker Cabs.

Keith enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding his Harley, playing horseshoes and cribbage. He loved spending time with family and friends and looked forward to coffee with friends.

Keith is survived by his parents, Ray and Gloria Karvonen of Atlantic Mine; his daughter, Emily Karvonen-Dorvinen of Houghton; three brothers and four sisters, Gloria (Ernie) Luttinen of Hancock, Wayne (Yoko) Karvonen of Olympia, Washington, Gary Karvonen of Onkalo’s Corner, Darlene (Kim) Van Wert of Aura, Diane Karvonen of South Range, Cindy (Gene) Hall of Ironwood, Donny Karvonen of Atlantic Mine; a nephew, numerous nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and special friends, Mike and Nancy Immonen of Atlantic Mine; and his friend and companion, Dawn Meredith of Ishpeming.

Keith was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald; a niece, Stephanie Karvonen; and his grandparents.

Cremation has taken place as requested by the deceased.

A gathering of family and friends to share memories will be held on Wednesday, October 12, 2016, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Brownstone Hall 46925, South Huron Street, Atlantic Mine.

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.