Humboldt Twp-Edward Walter Heikkila, age 83, of 8482 M-95 Champion, passed away at 6:15 AM, Thursday, April 24th, 2008 at Bell Hospital in Ishpeming.

Edward was born in Hancock, MI on September 9, 1924, the son of the late John and Hilda (Salema) Heikkila. He grew up in Republic and served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Edward married Corinne Woodbury on January 23, 1951.

Ed considered himself lucky to do the things he enjoyed doing. He was a hunter and a fisherman and also enjoyed trips to the casino. Edward visited Alaska 3 times spending 2 months there each time to salmon and trout fish. He retired from Cleveland Cliffs Mining Company after 38 years where he worked as a blaster at the Republic Mine and a truck driver at the Tilden Mine. Ed really believed in his sons and grandson's abilities which helped them become successful in their lives. He was so proud of his grandsons!

Survivors include his wife Corinne Heikkila of Champion, son: Thomas (Robin) Heikkila of Humboldt, grandsons: Thomas E. (Kari) Heikkila, Jr. of Forest Lake, MN and Jason D. Heikkila of Minneapolis, MN, great grandson: Thomas E. Heikkila, III, brother: Leonard Rautio of Michigamme, along with many nieces and nephews including Ruth & Steve Hillman of Humboldt. Edward was preceded in death by sisters: Lempi Rautio, Helen Lundstrom and a brother Richard Heikkila.

Honoring Ed's request, there will be no public service. Private services will be held at a later date. Inurnment will take place at the Humboldt Township Cemetery.