Bruce R. Pyykkonen
Lake Linden — Bruce R. Pyykkonen, 82, a resident of Lake Linden, made his journey to heaven on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Aspirus-Keweenaw Hospital in Laurium. He was born October 16, 1943, in Pelkie, son of the late Able and Lillian (Moilanen) Pyykkonen. Bruce was raised in Pelkie and attended the Baraga School.
Mr. Pyykkonen was a Veteran, having served with the United States Army and also the National Guard. He was a life member of the Operating Engineers 324. After the military service, he worked as a miner in White Pine and worked for several trucking companies, Pettibone, Reubin hauling logs, over a million miles on the road. After retiring, he worked for Superior Coaches bus to the casinos which he enjoyed so much! He enjoyed the people and the fun at all casinos.
He loved to travel. He had the best sense of humor. He was a loving and caring man and we all will miss him so much!
Preceding him in death were: his parents, his 3 brothers, and recently, his brother-Dave Pyykkonen.
Surviving are: his wife-Katie Pyykkonen, sister-in-law-Theresa (Randy) and Kelly Rothenberger of Racine, WI; Bruce’s children – Lori (Phil) Crary of Meredosia, IL, Mike Pyykkonen of Kalamazoo, MI; grandchildren – Joel Crary, Shelly (Michael) Smith; great-grandchildren – Mason Irwin, Clara, Dakota, and Copeland Smith; special niece-Susan Bradbury and her son-Elliot; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family would like visitation, with stories and laughter, from 2:00 until 4:00 P.M. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Pearce Funeral Home in Lake Linden, followed by a prayer service with Pastor Jared Howard to officiate, at the funeral home.
We thank all the doctors and nurses, especially Aspirus Hospital, that made our stay for six days, with care and compassion. Also, all the staff at Our Lady of Mercy.
Burial will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Calumet in the spring.
Online condolences may be shared at pearcefuneralhome.com