Stephen Elwood Perala

As a child, Steve and his family moved to Detroit to find a better life. There he graduated and went to work during Vietnam as a Weapons Engineering Technician, designing weapons for the United States military. He returned to Toivola after 9/11 and remained here the rest of his life. Always an avid scholar, he studied every subject incessantly. Among his ardor were design engineering, weapons, Vietnam, world wars, history of the world, then expanded into God, Christianity, the arts, philosophy, ancient histories, political science, trends of thinking in the US and the world, automobile design, and related classes at Michigan Tech University. His thirst for knowledge and love of animals, especially cats, were his signature.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, Lauri and Anna; sister, Nancy; and brothers, Vernen and Clarence. He is survived by a daughter, Jennifer Perala, of Germantown, Maryland; his Toivola family: Max, Glenda, Wyatt, Pete, Paula Villa, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends scattered throughout the Copper Country and across the US. Miss Kitty was his constant companion this past year, vigilant nurse during his final days, and was by his side at death. Graveside services by Fr. John will take place in the Spring. 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.