Republic - Steven Paul Ritola, age 60, of 151 Hemlock Street, Republic, passed away Monday, November 18, 2019 at his home in Republic.

Steven was born in Marquette on October 16, 1959, son of Wilho A. and the late Violet S. (Maki) Ritola.  Steve was a graduate of the Republic-Michigamme High School. He worked as a laborer for 9 years in Golf Course Design in many locations.  He then was a self-employed handyman doing various carpentry projects.  Steve was an avid sports fan, most notably of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Lions and had enjoyed playing softball in his younger years.

Steven is  survived by his father Wilho A. Ritola of Republic; brother George (Gayle) Ritola of Republic; nieces and nephews and their family members - Shannon (Andy) Demboski and their children Ryan and Brendan; Lindsay (Tom) Workman and their daughter Morgan; John (Jolyn) Groskreutz and their son Cody; Yvonne (Jason) Dunlap and their children Baileigh, Makayla and Gunnar; aunts and uncles - Mary Ann Voegtline, Chetty Maki, Wilhart Aho and David Laitala; along with many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Violet and sister Bonnie Grant.

Graveside Services will be held in the spring of 2020 at Republic Cemetery with the date and time to be announced.

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