Andrew “Antti” Wayne Heikkinen

ELO – Andrew “Antti” Wayne Heikkinen, 62, of Elo, passed away peacefully at home, on Monday, January 9, 2017, with family by his side, after a hard fought battle with cancer.

He was born in Hancock, on July 23, 1954, a son of Andrew E. and Ruth G. (Blum) Heikkinen.

Andrew loved nothing more than spending time with his family and friends. As an avid outdoorsman throughout his life, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and was often found out cruising on his ATV.

Andrew was a skilled carpenter and worked as a laborer on a variety of construction projects during his time. Andrew will be remembered as a talented and knowledgeable man. A true jack of all trades, always willing to help family and friends when asked upon.

He was also a retiree of the laborers union and just recently began receiving his pension.

As a proud member of the Otter Lake Sportsmen’s Club, Andrew enjoyed spending time there for billiards and socializing with friends over a cold beverage.

Andrew is survived by his sons, Andrew William and Matthew Allen, both of the Copper Country; his dear sister, Mary Ellen “Sisty” Heikkinen of Elo; brothers, Mike (Elma) Heikkinen also of Elo, Tom (Jan) Heikkinen of Chassell, Gerald Heikkinen of Askel Hill; eight grandchildren; along with numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Andrew was preceded in death by his father, Andrew E.; his mother, Ruth; brothers, Larry and Ralph; as well as his children’s mother, Donna Lynn, for whom, even after their separation, he held close to his heart.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2017, at Mission United Lutheran Church in Pelkie, with Pastor John Autio to officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Friday, January 13, 2017, in the church. A luncheon hosted by the church will follow the service.

Following the memorial service and luncheon, a celebration of life will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2017, at the Otter Lake Sportsmen’s Club, as Andy’s family and friends gather to share stories and bid farewell to a great friend of so many. Anyone who knew him is welcome to attend.

The family would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support. Thank you to Aspirus Home Hospice for their impeccable care and compassion. Along with close friends, Jerry Paavola and Patrick Puska for all they did to help us keep Andy’s wish of spending his final days at home. We would also like to mention Michael and Elaine Laitila, as they made his time during treatment at U of M feel a little more like home.

Funeral 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.