Louis Haataja
ELO — It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce the passing of Louis Gordon Haataja, affectionately known as “Grandpa.” Born on June 27, 1940, he grew up in Elo, Michigan and lived a vibrant and full life until the age of 84.
Louis was a man of many talents, an extraordinary individual who could build or fix just about anything. Known for his adventures and ability to survive the unexpected–from a lightning strike to encounters with wild bears–Louis lived life to its fullest. His escapades even included a memorable encounter with Bigfoot, a story that always brought smiles and laughs to his loved ones.
He was deeply passionate about his family, proudly raising four children alongside his beloved wife, Judith Mabel Haataja, to whom he was married for 60 wonderful years until her passing on Oct. 26, 2021.
Louis cherished his role as a father to Alan, Greg, Carrie, and Carissa and was an adoring grandfather to 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He loved spending time with his family, always encouraging them with his deep Upper Peninsula accent.
A welder by trade, Louis found joy in creating both practical and artistic pieces through his work with metal and wood. He loved the outdoors, with gardening, fishing, and deer hunting being some of his favorite pastimes. Whether he was enjoying the tranquility of his garden or the thrill of the hunt, Louis always felt at home in nature.
He is survived by his children, Alan (Anna) of Holiday Island, Arkansas, Greg (Nila) of Fort Worth, Texas, Carrie Kostyak (Leonard) of Rhome, Texas, and Carissa Fisher (Mike) of Rogers, Arkansas. His legacy of love and adventure will continue through his grandchildren, Trey, Chelsea, Ethan, Cade, Madelaine, Tony, Christine, Grezalyn, Greg Jr., Felipe, Stephan, and Alan Jr.; and his siblings, Leslie Haataja of Elo, Severi Haataja (June) of Chassell, and Elma Heikkinen (Mike) of Elo.
An ordinary, yet extraordinary man, Louis leaves behind a tapestry of cherished memories woven from his love for family, his pets, and the great outdoors. His welcoming heart and adventurous spirit will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
A graveside service and burial will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 30, at the Elo Cemetery. A funeral reception will follow at Tapiola Doelle Senior Center.
To send condolences to Louis’s family, please visit www.memorialchapel.net.