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Darrell J. Latvala ‘Laff’

In loving memory of “The Old Man” aka “The Dad” aka “Pops” aka “Laff” – Father, brother, uncle, friend. Loving, loyal to the end. Our spirits some day will meet again. You’ll live on earth in each of us till then.”

CALUMET — Darrell James Latvala, “Laff,” 57, passed away unexpectedly in his home Friday, June 5, 2020. He will be missed greatly by all who knew him.

Darrel was a native of the Copper Country, while he spent the majority of his life here, he did some adventuring in Wyoming and Arizona as a young adult. He had a deep connection with this area and loved being part of the Calumet community.

Darrel had a passion for all kinds of music, he was always ready to listen to something fresh and find his newest jams, remaining loyal to his all time favorites as well. He also had an affinity for sports, playing hockey in his youth, remaining an avid fan of the Detroit Red Wings & the Tigers, reserving his greatest zeal for the Green Bay Packers. Some of his most beloved adventures of recent years were going with his children to see his favorite teams play.

He was very fond of telling stories as well as jokes, he loved to make people laugh. Conversing and connecting with people was especially dear to him, his bond with family and friends being that which he prized most of all. His family and friends meant more to him than anything else, this remained true throughout his life. Few things brought him the happiness he got from being able to help someone else, “Nobody’s perfect, but I try my best” were words often spoken by him.

Darrel was preceded in death by his longtime partner, Gale Makolin (2019); his mother, Rosalyn Latvala (2019); father, James Latvala (1997); dear sister, Denise Latvala (1998); and nephew, Michael Latvala (2006).

He is survived by one brother, Darrin Latvala; nephew, Jesse Latvala; dear friend, Karita Holmstrom-Latvala; daughter, Margaret Latvala; and his son, Oakley Latvala.

A short funeral service will be held at Ryan’s Funeral Home in Calumet, Thursday June 18, 2020, at 4:30 p.m. followed by a Gathering of Remembrance in honor of Darrel at Calumet Lions Park (AKA Calumet Dam) from roughly 5:30 to 7 p.m. Refreshments will be provided at the latter.

All are welcome who wish to join in remembrance and celebration of the life of Darrel James Latvala, taken from us far too soon.