IRONWOOD TOWNSHIP, Mich. - With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce that Dan L. Waurio, 80, went home to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on Monday, March 2, 2026. Surrounded by loved ones and carried by faith, he entered eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to family and friends.

Though our hearts ache in his absence, we find comfort in knowing that Dan is now at peace, embraced by his Lord Jesus Christ. He will be remembered not only for his years lived, but for the love given so freely and the countless lives touched along the way.

Dan was born in Ironwood on July 20, 1945, to Arnold and Sigrid (Manninen) Waurio. He was a humble man and the utmost definition of a hard worker, providing for his family with a tireless work ethic. This work ethic undoubtedly came from being raised by Finlanders on a farm in North Ironwood.

Immediately after graduating from high school, Dan entered the Army National Guard and honorably served for six years. During that time, he was called to protect the city of Detroit in the midst of the riots of 1967. On May 31, 1969, Dan married the love of his life, Carol Kinnunen. Their marriage was blessed by four children and 10 grandchildren.

Dan held various jobs. These jobs included clearing land at Powderhorn Ski Hill, baking pasties at Jack's Foods, helping to make outboard motors at Johnson Motors Company, and making shoes at Kimball Shoe Factory. After faithfully completing his service to his country in the Army National Guard, he went to work at the Ironwood trailer plant for six years. In 1976, Dan started working as a custodian and groundskeeper for the Ironwood School District. He retired from there after nearly 30 years of service.

In retirement, Dan loved spending time with his loving wife. They spent time traveling around the Midwest, riding bikes, camping, and still always found time for their afternoon coffee. Dan also discovered a hobby in chainsaw wood carving. Dan enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and making them laugh. Favorite family activities included camping at Little Girl's Point, creating wood critters, and "Waurio Summer Games."

Dan is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Carol; four children, Brad (Laura) Waurio, Todd Waurio, Becky Anderson and Shawn (Katrina) Waurio; 10 grandchildren, McKenna, Linnea, Aaliyah, Ameerah, Leilah, Natalie, Lainah, Anneka, Ruby and Madic; a sister, Annette Scott; a brother, Dale (Shari) Waurio; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary Ann; two brothers, Darrell and Norman; his son-in-law, Aaron Anderson; his sister-in-law, Irene Suvanto; and three brothers-in-law, William Suvanto, John Jennings and Dennis Kinnunen.

The Waurio family would like to express a heartfelt "Thank You" to all the healthcare workers who attended Dan during his recent medical journey.

Though we mourn his passing and will miss him dearly, we rejoice in knowing he has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 14, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 9:30 a.m., at the Apostolic Lutheran Church, 326 W. Aurora St., in Ironwood, with the Rev. Alan Estola officiating. There will be a luncheon following the service in the church fellowship hall.

A committal service and interment will take place at Sunset Acres Cemetery, Ironwood Township, later this spring.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.