IRONWOOD, Mich. – Jack Raymond Huotari, 72, of Ironwood, passed away unexpectedly on Friday April 11, 2025, at his home.

Jack was born on Aug. 7, 1952, in Bessemer Township, a son of Frederick and Edna (Elsila) Huotari. He graduated from Luther L. Wright High School in Ironwood.

Jack proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, and was honorably discharged as a specialist fourth grade on Sept. 23, 1979. He was a supporting member of the Ironwood American Legion Post 5.

Jack was an excellent baker, especially known for his pasties, at a local Ironwood bakery.

Jack is survived by three sisters, Nancy (Stan) Carlson, Duluth, Minnesota, Anna (Larry) Anderson, Ironwood, and Linda (Andrew) Skoviera, Hurley, Wisconsin; numerous nieces and nephews, especially his niece, Cathy Tankka; many great-nieces and great-nephews; and other loving relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Tauno Reini; a daughter, Melinda; five brothers, William, Ronald, Robert, James and Dennis; and two sisters, Doris Toivonen and Judy Bettiga.

Cremation has taken place.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 18, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at the Pioneer Park Apartments Community Room, 515 E. Vaughn St., in Ironwood, with the Rev. Jean Rencontre officiating.

Following the service, full military rites will be accorded by the Ironwood American Legion Post 5 Honor Guard, assisted by the U.P. Funeral Honors Team.

Refreshments will be served at the community room immediately following the military honors.

Interment will take place later in the spring at the Riverside Cemetery in Ironwood.

The family would like to thank the staff at Northwest Wisconsin Cancer Center in Ashland, Wisconsin, Avanti Home Health Services in Hurley, UPCAP Services Inc., in Ironwood, and his faithful caregiver, Bonnie Udd, for the compassionate, excellent care given to Jack.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family, in care of Cathy Tankka, Box 276, Ironwood, MI 49938.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.