Gerald "Jerry" Koponen

Memorial service for Gerald “Jerry” Koponen, 84, of Hoyt Lakes, will be 2pm Friday, December 28, 2018 at Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Aurora with Deacon Mark Skala officiating. Friends may gather one hour prior to the service.  Military honors accorded by the Aurora/Hoyt Lakes Color Guard.

Jerry died Sunday, December 23, 2018 at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, MN.

He was born December 8, 1934 in Ironwood, Michigan to Leonard and Lila (Oja) Koponen. Following his schooling he enlisted with the US Army and was stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict.  Following his service, he returned to Ironwood.  In the early 1960’s he moved to Embarrass and worked for Erie Mining Company.  He worked as a heavy equipment operator and retired from LTV Steel with 38 years of service.

Jerry was a member of the Aurora American Legion, the Hoyt Lakes VFW and the Steelworkers Union #4108. He was a league bowler in Virginia and Hoyt Lakes and enjoyed watching boxing and football, especially the Minnesota Vikings.  He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his children: Debra (Duane) Johnson, Daniel (Robin) Koponen, Darlene (Bruce) Petron, Darrell (Angel) Koponen and Dennis (Judy) Koponen; 14 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; former wife, Jeanne Koponen; brother, Brian (Mickie) Koponen; sister, Kathy (Paul) Grbavcich; several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert and Ron and a great-great granddaughter, Kennedi Mae.