WAKEFIELD, Mich. - Rudy Krznarich, 74, was born on Thursday, Feb. 20, 1947, in Wakefield, to Mike and Irja Krznarich. He passed away peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, surrounded by his loving family.

Rudy attended Wakefield Schools. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

When Rudy returned home, he was employed by Kimberly Clark in Marenisco. Rudy found his passion while working at the Northern Peninsula Tree Service. He decided to start his own company, Superior Tree Service, with three partners. Then, Rudy began working for Northern Clearing in Ashland, Wisconsin.

On Sept. 15, 1973, he married Nancy J. Horswill in Bessemer.

Rudy finally found his calling at the Wakefield American Legion Geroux Post 11. He was a dedicated member of the honor guard. Throughout the years, Rudy held the positions of finance officer, adjutant and commander.

Rudy loved hunting and fishing and spending time with friends. He enjoyed taking his best bud, Willow, for rides in his ranger.

Rudy is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy; a sister, Karen Clark, Wakefield; his children, Brodi Krznarich and Cassie Ranta (Jim), both of Wakefield, and Lynn Gasch, Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and her children, Kristyn Hefner and Michael Scherwinski, and their children, Nathan, Quintin, Lindsey and Natalie. Rudy leaves the lights of his life his grandchildren, Zoe and Cohen Kanto, and Hailey Krznarich. He loved watching them play volleyball, hockey and basketball. Rudy was so looking forward to attending Cohen's basketball games. He was very proud of their accomplishments. Rudy will be dearly missed by all.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents, Onni and Helmi Kujala; a brother, Mike, at birth; and a grandson, Ryan Pockat.

There will be a celebration of Rudy's life at the Wakefield American Legion Geroux Post 11 at a later date.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Aspirus Ironwood Hospital and Jerald Rocco of the Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield for guiding us through this difficult time. Your professionalism and kindness goes above and beyond.