Ely Twp, MI- Donald Wayne Salo, age 80, Ely Township resident passed away unexpectedly on Friday June 9, 2023.

Donald was born in Ishpeming, Michigan on August 3, 1942, a son of the late Wilho E. and Jennie (Heinonen) Salo. Don graduated from Eben High School.

Don served in the U.S. Army as a SP4 during the Vietnam War. Don worked 35 years for CCI, at Tilden and Empire Mines, retiring as a welder.

Don enjoyed deer hunting, riding his motorcycle, working around the house, cutting grass, and was an avid cribbage player, playing in various local leagues, and tournaments. Additionally, he was an avid bowler, enjoyed shooting billiards, cross country skiing and biking.

Don was a member of Ikkala Brothers VFW Post #9714 of Chatham. Don had quite a sense of humor and always had a joke to tell.

Donald is survived by three sons: Daniel D. (Julie) Salo, William D. Salo and Shawn P. Salo, a grandson Ethan Salo, a brother Richard (Barbara) Salo along with nieces and nephews; Dwayne (Jennifer) Misegan, Mark Misegan, Lynn (Randy) Haataja, and John (Sharon) Misegan, Kathryn Salo and Laura (Bart) Kasperski.

He was preceded by his parents, the love of his life of 38 years wife Phyllis (Ivey) Salo, and a sister Marie Salo.

Graveside services with Military Honors will be held at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Chatham at 11:00 am on Friday, June 23, 2023, honors will be provided by the UP Funeral Honors Team and Alger County Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial donations may be directed to Chatham V.F.W. c/o Marvin Maki, P.O. Box 134 Eben Jct, MI 49825, or West End Suicide Prevention at wesp@greatlakesrecovery.org.

Don's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com.