Humboldt Twp- Eldred Rautio, age 85 of 19843 US Hwy 41 W Champion (Humboldt Twp) passed away Friday September 11, 2015 at the Mather Nursing Center where he has been a resident since May 2014.

Eldred was born December 15, 1929 in Champion to John & Ida (Aho) Rautio. He grew up in Champion and later moved to Humboldt Township where he built his home. Eldred worked as a carpenter in the carpenters union in his younger years. He later went to work for Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company where he worked for 30 years, retiring as a plant repairman from the Tilden Mine.

In his retirement years Eldred still enjoyed carpentry and wood working and spent countless hours restoring his 1928 Dodge.

Eldred is survived by his wife Elaine (Harmala) Rautio, whom he married on December 31, 1955, 4 children: Nancy Prodell of Humboldt Twp, David (Peggy) Rautio Sr. of National Mine, Ken Rautio of Humboldt Twp and Michael (Cindy) Rautio of Republic, his identical twin brother Elden Rautio of Marquette, 6 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews. Eldred was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters: Hannah Rautio and Betty Skytta, and 3 brothers: Albert, Bill and Matt Rautio.

Private funeral services for Eldred will be held at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home with Rev. Lauri O. Maki officiating. Interment will take place at the Humboldt Township Cemetery.

Eldred's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.