IRONWOOD, Mich. - It is with heavy hearts, that we announce that Wayne A. Sillanpaa, 75, passed away peacefully at Aspirus St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, Minnesota, on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. Wayne lived a life devoted to family, hard work and enjoyment in the outdoors.

Wayne graduated from Luther L. Wright High School in 1967. Shortly after, he entered and completed two years of trade school receiving a diploma in machine tool operation, with North Central Technical Institute and North Central Vocation and Technical School, in 1969. Later in 1969, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a 0351 anti-tank assaultman in active duty during the Vietnam War from December 1969 to December 1971. Wayne was honorably discharged as a lance corporal in September 1975. He was awarded a National Defense Service Medal. Later in 1975, Wayne also completed and received a diploma for course study in mobile engine service and vehicle maintenance with ASI Advance Schools, Inc.

Born on March 18, 1949, Wayne married the love of his life, Florence M. Cabianca, on Feb. 26, 1973, at Salem Lutheran Church in Ironwood. They shared nearly 35 years before Florence's passing in May 2008. Together, they built a life centered on love and raising two devoted daughters, Rachel and Sara. Sean, Wayne's grandson, was also a treasured part of Wayne's life and his favorite fishing buddy.

Wayne was a hard worker, yet he also made time to enjoy his passion for the outdoors--this time included solidarity but also time with family and/or friends. He spent a good deal of time fishing his secret fishing holes. He enjoyed feeding and watching the wildlife in the yard. He also loved to tinker in the garage and around the property. His love was often shown to others through his actions, support and sense of humor. He took pleasure spending time brushing and snuggling his previous kitty, Lucy.

Wayne was preceded in death by his father and mother, Arnie and Jean Sillanpaa.

He is survived by two daughters, Rachel (Kirt) Harmon and Sara (Mark) Pizzala; his grandson, Sean Harmon; his siblings, Donald Sillanpaa, Shirley (John) Longhini-Owen, Ronald (Deborah) Sillanpaa, Kathy Moncher, Debra (Joe) Perricone and John Sillanpaa; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A small, family-only, graveside service will occur this summer, followed by a communal celebration of life. Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life to be held on Saturday, Aug. 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the John Siira pavilion on beautiful Sunday Lake in Wakefield.

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.