REPUBLIC, MI - Roy G. Kemppainen, age 87, longtime Republic resident, passed away on Sunday June 14, 2026, at UP Health System Marquette, while in the loving care of his family, and hospital staff.

Roy was born in Mass City, MI on December 15, 1938, son of the late Edward Kemppainen and Aili Mattson. He graduated from Mass City High School with the class of 1957. Following graduation, he attended Suomi College, before transferring to Northern Michigan University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1961, following his graduation from NMU he married Veronica Store on August 19, 1961. Roy then began his teaching career in 1961 in Merrill, MI where he taught Junior High and High School Math from 1961-1964. During the summers, Roy took classes towards his Masters Degree, which he received from Central Michigan University in 1965. Roy continued his career at Republic-Michigamme School District where he taught High School math and physics, and Junior High math, and coached 7th grade basketball. He retired in 1999 after 35 years with the district.

Roy was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic for over 50 years, was a lifelong member of the Republic Lions club up until its disbanding in 2021. He enjoyed playing softball, throwing horseshoes, playing golf, reading, cheering on the Tigers and Lions, travelling, where he visited nearly all 50 states, including many trips to Canada and a trip around the entire perimeter of Lake Superior.

Roy is survived by 5 children: Michael (Judy) Kemppainen, Krin Kemppainen, Robert Kemppainen, Kasondra “Kay” (Steve) Schroeder, Moira (Greg “Chip”) Bazhenow, sister: Helen Johnson, 4 grandchildren: Tristan Kemppainen, Laura Nardi, Kourtney Bazhenow, Milton Champlin, 2 great grandchildren: Bristol and Eli, along with several nieces and nephews.

Roy was preceded in death by his father: Edward Kemppainen, mother: Aili Mattson, step-father: Marvin Mattson, wife: Veronica Kemppainen, brother: Benharte Kemppainen, and sister: Florence Kangas.

Roy’s family will greet relatives and friends at Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic on Saturday September 5, 2026, from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. A memorial service will follow at 3:00pm with Rev. Alex Ross officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall. Interment will take place in the Maple Grove Cemetery in Greenland Twp., MI.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Roy to Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic or to the Bay Cliff Health Camp.

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