John L. Perona, 73, a resident of Ahmeek passed away on Wednesday June 1, 2016 with his family by his side at UP Health System-Portage.

He was born on July 11, 1942 in Laurium to Frank and Viola (Isaacson) Perona.

John attended Calumet High School and graduated with the Class of 1960.


After graduating John worked for Calumet & Hecla Mining Company until their closing. Following the copper mines, he moved to the Ishpeming area where he worked in the Iron mines for a short time.


John was a member of the United States Army and Army Reserves, honorably discharged in 1968.


After working in the mines, John began his career at Northern Hardwoods, there he worked as a Maintenance Millwright and Supervisor for 32 years, retiring in 2004.


John loved the outdoors. He loved to go rock hunting, and lapidary, which is a process of finishing and polishing rocks. He loved to go out hunting, fishing, and four wheeling.


He enjoyed playing music, especially his guitar.


He had a love for Keweenaw County. He loved to read about the history of both the Copper Country and Keweenaw County.


On March 13, 1971 he married Florence Salmi in Houghton, Michigan.


He was a member of the Midwest Rock hunters Federation and the Michigan Technological University Mineral Club.


He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Viola, and his wife, Florence.


He is survived by:


Very Significant Other: Esther Tanskanen of Ahmeek

His daughter :


Tammy (Gene James) Perona of Pembine, Wisconsin

His son: David (Elizabeth) LaCasse of Star, Idaho


Sisters:

Victoria Perona of Kearsarge

Lucille (Norman) Makela of Calumet

His dog: Jake


And numerous nephews, nieces, great nephews, great nieces, and friends.


The family would like to thank Father Abraham Mupparathara for his care that he gave to John.


Per John’s request, private family services were held and Father Abraham Mupparathara officiated.


Online condolences for the family may be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com


The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home of Calumet is assisting the family with the arrangements.