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MOHAWK -- James Matti Heikkila of Mohawk, Michigan passed away on November 4, 2026 at Omega House in Houghton Michigan.
Jim was born on June 7, 1941 in Ludington, Michigan to John B. Heikkila and Helen W. (Jacobson) Heikkila. Jim graduated from the Michigan College of Mining and Technology (now Michigan Tech) with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He met the love of his life, Joan E. Buckett and they were married October 3, 1964. Jim started working for the Keweenaw County Road Commission soon after graduating and became the County Engineer in October of 1964, serving in the role for 38 years. He was a licensed Professional Engineering and Registered Land Surveyor. In addition to his day job, he also had many surveying jobs, oftentimes involving the whole family. He served on the CLK School Board, with a term as president. He was a long-time member of the Keweenaw Lions Club. He was also very involved in the Episcopal Church in Calumet where he and Joan were members since their marriage. In his retirement he continued to serve the county as Building Inspector. In his free time, he liked to work with wood, making many of his signature tables for family and friends. He also enjoyed golf, especially at Sandy Pebbles.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Heikkila, his wife, Joan Heikkila, and his sister Kristen Nash.
He is survived by his children; Mathew (Denise) Heikkila, Mark (Sherry Bengie) Heikkila, Karl Heikkila, and Sara Heikkila, his sister Karin (Mike) Cunningham, and grandchildren; Kelly Heikkila, Megan Heikkila, and Dana Heikkila.
A private service for Jim will be held at the Ahmeek Cemetery. A celebration of Life will be held at a place and time to be announced later, on or about June 7, 2027.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Omega House in Houghton, Michigan.
The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com