Republic, MI- Mr. Rudolph Fredric Laitinen, 64, of P.O. Box 41- 409 Kloman Ave Republic, passed away on Monday, December 20th, 2010 at Mather Nursing Center, Ishpeming.


Rudolph was born in Marquette, Michigan on November 2, 1946, the son of the late Rudolph J. and Elma (Wuokko) Laitinen. He graduated from Republic High School in 1965. He served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War.


Rudy moved to Lower Michigan and worked for the City of Flint at Bishop Airport as a foreman, retiring in 1985. He returned to the UP in 2006 residing in Republic. Rudy had his pilot's license and enjoyed flying & parachuting, he was a wonderful storyteller and enjoyed time spent with his grandchildren. Rudy was a member of the V.F.W. and D.A.V.


Rudy is survived by his wife Russette (Biddle) Laitinen, whom he married Nov. 16, 1985, three daughters, Joy and Mike Reopel of Flint, MI; Dannette M. Gray and Daniel Jenkins of Durand, MI;
Heather Woodbeck and Louis Briseno of Ishpeming, a son, Russell Biddle of Republic, MI; 2 grandchildren: Chandler "chandaleir" J. Gray-Jenkins, & Gavin "partner" Woodbeck, along with 2 aunts, an uncle and 46 cousins. Rudy was preceded in death by his parents, 2 daughters: Jane & Debbie Laitinen and his ex-wife Susan


Funeral services will be held 1:00PM Monday, December 27, 2010 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming with Bishop E.R. Crider officiating. Spring burial will take place in the Republic Twp Cemetery.


Visitation will be held at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home on Sunday December 26, 2010 from 2:00-5:00PM and on Monday from 12:00noon until the time of service at 1:00PM.

A luncheon will be held at the Republic Twp Fire Hall following the funeral service.


Rudy's obituary may also be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com where his guest book may be signed.