Jeffrey J.

Sirtola

REPUBLIC, MI – Jeffrey J. Sirtola, age 61, of Republic, passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at UP Health System – Marquette, while in the comforting care of his family and ICU staff.

Jeff was born in Ishpeming, Michigan, on August 30, 1965, the son of Joel “Buddy” and Dianne (Shepherd) Sirtola. He was raised in Republic, where his adventurous spirit and love for almost anything with a motor became evident at an early age. Jeff was always on the go and had a need for speed from the time he started riding dirt bikes at just eight years old. Sitting still was never really his thing, and he spent his life chasing the next adventure.

He attended Republic Schools, graduating with the Class of 1983. Following graduation, Jeff proudly joined the United States Marine Corps, serving until his honorable discharge in 1989.

After his military service, Jeff made his home in the South, where he spent much of his adult life working for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Alabama and Virginia. Following 30 years of dedicated service, he retired and returned to the Upper Peninsula, where his heart had always belonged. Never one to stay idle for long, Jeff later worked at Lowe’s to keep himself busy.

While living in the South, Jeff developed a tremendous love for horses. At one time, he had five horses, and they were truly his pride and joy. He spent countless hours caring for them, breaking horses, and participating in rodeos. His horses were a huge part of his life, and many of his happiest memories were made alongside them and the friends he made along the way.

Back home in the U.P., Jeff found plenty of ways to keep that adventurous spirit alive. His side-by-side and snowmobile rides were among his favorite ways to spend a day. Whether heading out for a ride, enjoying the outdoors, hunting, fishing, or simply getting together with friends for a couple of cold ones, Jeff knew how to enjoy life. He was a member of the Republic Sportsmen’s Club and Moose Country Snowmobile and ORV Club.

More than anything, Jeff loved spending time with the people closest to him. He especially cherished time with his family and his nephew, Zachary Sirtola, along with the many special friends he made both in the South and here in the U.P. There were far too many friendships to mention individually, but each held a special place in his heart.

If there was one word to describe Jeff, it would be carefree. He lived life on his own terms, with a wild and adventurous spirit that never seemed to slow down. He had a love for speed that stayed with him from childhood through his final days, a long list of plans and adventures he still wanted to experience but not enough time, and his familiar saying for just about any occasion: “Outstanding!”

Jeff is survived by his mother, Dianne Sirtola; his son, Levi (Felisha) Sirtola; grandchildren, Austin, Christian, and Sophia; sisters, Sherry Kulju and Lori (Tim) Levi; his brother, Michael (Amanda) Sirtola; nieces, Angie (Kody) Jasinski, Michelle (Ryan Lyyski) Kulju, and Tessa (Michael Dakota) Sirtola; nephew, Tanner (Bailey Griffin) Sirtola; along with several great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joel “Buddy” Sirtola; nephews, Jason Sirtola and Arlen Levi; his niece, Melissa Kulju; and his brother-in-law, Curt Kulju.

Honoring Jeff’s wishes, cremation will take place, and a celebration of life will be held in the spring. Interment will take place in the Republic Township Cemetery.

Jeff’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at UP Health System – Marquette, especially the ICU staff, for the compassion and care they provided to Jeff.

Jeff lived life fast, loved deeply, and made memories wherever the road took him. Though he had plenty of miles left that he hoped to travel, his family and friends can take comfort knowing that he is now free to ride without limits. He has his wings, and knowing Jeff, he is flying fast and high, and that’s “Outstanding!”

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.