Ely Twp. – Roger Junak, age 78, renowned local artist, passed away on Thursday August 11, 2022, of natural causes at U. P. Health System Marquette.

Roger was born in Ishpeming, MI on November 27, 1943, a son of the late Margaret (Morin) and George Junak. He was a graduate of Ishpeming High School. Roger received a scholarship to study art at The Columbus School of Art and Design, Columbus, OH where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He then continued his studies at St. Francis College in Fort Wayne, IN. where he received a BA teaching degree. Roger served in the U.S. Army as a graphics artist in Ft. Meade, MD during the late 1960's until his honorable discharge in May of 1970.

Roger was very active in the art community and taught various art classes in the Community Schools program for many years. He was a well-respected artist, his paintings can be found in several locations including local churches, and public buildings. Roger was honored and recognized by various groups for his wonderful artistic ability. Roger was deeply spiritual and a devoted Catholic who had a special affection for St. Francis. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Ishpeming.

Roger is survived by a brother Donald C. (Irene) Junak of The Villages, FL, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, along with his close friends Mary and Bill, and several members of the art community. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, brothers - George Jr. (Donna) and Robert (Helen) Junak, and a sister Agnes (Pius) Arseneau.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 3:30 until 4:30PM on Thursday, August 18, 2022, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Ishpeming. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 4:30PM on Thursday at St. John's with the Rev. Fr. Ryan Ford to officiate, assisted by Deacon Donald Junak. A dinner will follow the services in the K/D Hall.

Memorials may be directed to Food for the Poor at foodforthepoor.org, or Cross Catholic Outreach at crosscatholic.org two of Roger's favorite charities.

Those who have artwork created by Roger are encouraged to share their art piece(s) by uploading a photo to his photo album at bjorkandhulkie.com or bring a photo of such to be displayed at the church.

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