He was born at Big Traverse on May 7, 1940, a son of John and Marion Wiita. He graduated from Lake Linden-Hubbell High School in 1959.

He worked as a commercial fisherman before enlisting in the US Navy. He then moved to Rochester, where he worked in construction and later, a tool-and-die company until he retired.

He was married to Maxine Pawlitz on October 25, 1969. She passed away on July 8, 2013.

He enjoyed bowling, hunting and in recent years, crossword puzzles.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; and three brothers, Jack, William and Michael.

He is survived by a brother, James (Eileen) of Lake Linden; sisters, Katherine Honkala of Ishpeming and Margaret (John) Lindholm of Marquette; sister-in-law, Elaine Wiita of Hubbell; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Military Honors graveside service will be conducted by the Copper Country Veterans at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, October 25, 2016, at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Lake Linden.

The Pearce Funeral Home in Lake Linden is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at pearcefuneralhome.com